Bushra Ansari | Published: 15 March, 2024

According to a report released by United Nations agencies, the global Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in 2020 was estimated at 223 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. In 2020, an estimated 287,000 women globally died from a maternal cause, equivalent to almost 800 maternal deaths every day, or approximately one every two minutes. As per the Government of India, the MMR was 97 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020. MMR is the number of maternal deaths due to complications in pregnancy or childbirth during a given time period per 100,000 live births during the same time period.

Poor health (anemia, malnutrition, chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes) has repercussions not only for women but also for their families. Women in poor health are more likely to give birth to low-weight infants. They also are less likely to be able to provide food and adequate care for their children. Finally, a woman’s health affects the household's economic well-being, as a woman in poor health will be less productive in the labour force.

1. MMR in India has declined over the years from 130 in 2016 to 97 in 2020

Data Source- Sample Registration System, Ministry of Home Affairs(SRS, MHA)

India is making steady progress towards achieving Target 3.1 of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aims to reduce the global MMR to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030.

Health infrastructure and female literacy have emerged as the significant correlates of MMR. Initiatives such as Surakshit Matritva Anushasan (SUMAN) and Labour Room & Quality Improvement Initiative (LaQshya) have played a pivotal role in increasing the number of institutional deliveries from 79 per cent in 2015- 16 to 89 per cent in 2019-20. Around 87 per cent births in rural areas and 94 per cent births in urban areas are institutional deliveries.

2. Maternal mortality landscape in 2020: Kerala records lowest MMR, Assam highest

Data Source- SRS, MHA

Because of the wide variation in cultures, religions, and levels of development across India, it is not surprising that women’s health also varies greatly from state to state.

Assam has India's highest MMR, at 195 per 100,000 live births. Roughly 54% of pregnant women (15-49 years) in Assam are anemic, likely due to poverty, illiteracy, and lack of awareness about iron-folic acid tablets and their benefits. A study at a hospital in eastern Uttar Pradesh found that lack of intensive care unit (ICU) beds, high ICU costs, and inadequate antenatal visits led to high MMR. A brief on maternal and neonatal mortality in Madhya Pradesh listed poor coverage of antenatal care, sub-optimal health facilities, and inadequate number of staff nurses and specialists as high MMR causes. One in five pregnant women in MP deliver at home. NMR (Neonatal Mortality Rate), IMR (Infant Mortality Rate), and U5MR (Under-Five Mortality Rate) are highest among women who delivered at home.

3. 94.6% of total reported deliveries were institutional in year 2021-2022

Data Source- Health Management Information System, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Home births without skilled birth attendants (SBA) can raise risks for both the mother and the baby. Financial constraints, lack of proper transportation facilities, non- accessibility of healthcare institutions and not getting permission from family members were the main reasons cited by the women for delivering at home. It is essential to strengthen public healthcare facilities and effectively use skilled birth attendants and their networks

4. Women with more education are more likely to receive skilled antenatal care (ANC)

*Skilled provider includes doctor, auxiliary nurse midwife, nurse, midwife, and lady health visitor
Data Source- National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-2021)

Education plays a significant role in empowering women to make informed decisions during their pregnancy journey and reduces the likelihood of them feeling shame or discomfort when seeking ANC services. Additionally, education enhances women's access to ANC services, equipping them with the knowledge of where to locate these facilities and the financial means to afford them. Through ANC, women can learn from skilled health personnel about healthy behaviors during pregnancy, better understand warning signs during pregnancy and childbirth, and receive social, emotional, and psychological support.

In 2022, the Bikaner district in Rajasthan launched an awareness drive called 'Pukar' to educate pregnant and lactating women, as well as adolescent girls, about maternal and child health. This initiative involved government representatives spreading vital information about institutional deliveries, nutrition during pregnancy, essential tests, and vaccinations to over 2.34 lakh women and 92,300 adolescent girls. As a result, maternal deaths in the district dropped from 70 in 2021 to 32 in 2022. Similarly, the Telangana government's KCR Kits scheme, launched in 2017, has significantly increased institutional deliveries in government hospitals, from 30.5% in 2017 to 56% in 2022. The scheme offers financial support to mothers, provides free prenatal to post-delivery tests and immunization vaccines, and distributes a kit containing items essential for infants and lactating mothers.

It is crucial to scale up efforts to support girls and women across various metrics, such as education, healthcare access, community engagement, and economic participation. Enhancing women's healthcare and encouraging them to take ownership of their health and hygiene through equal access to high-quality care are important strategies. A decentralized approach can be adopted by empowering community-level platforms, such as self-help groups, anganwadi centres, village health committees, and mahila mandals, to raise awareness of women's safety, sexual and reproductive health, and family planning choices.

(Author Bushra Ansari is a Data Analyst at ISDM DataSights, supported by Capgemini)

Admin | Published: 15 March, 2024

Have you ever stopped to anticipate all the basic necessities in your life and how easily they could slip away? Imagine the millions who are not privileged enough for what you have. This troubling statistic will leave you numb.

According to the Global MPI results in 2021, nearly 1.3 billion of the 5.8 billion beings across 109 countries lacked basic accessibility to food, water, and sanitation. It is disheartening that nearly half of all children under 12 are facing the issue of poverty. In the coming years, this number will increase and it demands our undivided attention to this global situation.

Indian School of Development Management is committed to creating future change-makers in development management along with experienced thought leaders, practitioners, and professors. If you are passionate about a 360-degree change in the lives of the unprivileged, here is your chance to be the next global change-maker! Without wasting any more time, let’s dig into this guide to comprehend what is development management, why it matters, and how you can transform lives.

What is Development Management?

Development management is more than applying traditional management principles to social problems. It uses a strategic approach towards the Social Purpose Organizations (SPOs). The primary focus is to plan, organise and implement projects and programs for sustainable development.

To understand the concept even better, there are a few examples that set the right context for development management. For example, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme was launched in India with the motive of improving the lives of rural residents and giving them a sense of economic security to live a better livelihood. At the global level, the United Nations Member States adopted the initiative to bring peace, prosperity, and a clear vision to end poverty with 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Why is it Necessary to have Development Management in the Social Sector?

The social sector is currently facing challenges, in terms of poverty and inequality to environmental problems and access to basic necessities. The traditional approach to tackling complex social issues often falls short, which again creates chaos in the process. To avoid such mishaps, development management bridges these gaps with the following:

1. Navigating through Challenges

Understanding the specific needs and challenges that people are facing, or else it would lead to impractical and harmful decisions. Also, identifying the need to leverage sufficient resources and expertise from the NGOs, government, and private sectors. So, utilising valid evidence to make analytical, strategic decisions will ensure the implementation of solutions that are beneficial in improving the livelihoods.

2. Achieving Sustainable Impacts

Aiming for a sustainable change takes time and needs strategic planning to create an impactful change. Development management ensures that the process reaches more beneficiaries, grows sustainably and creates a long-lasting impact. The ultimate goal of providing skills and resources to the local communities will help in achieving development rather than short term interventions.

3. Maintaining Transparency and Ownership

Enabling trust with the stakeholders and collaborators via straightforward communication and reliable resource management. Ensuring every individual is kept in the loop during the decision-making processes, assuring interventions reflect their needs and priorities. Despite bureaucracy and funding pressures, development managers maintain SPOs true to their mission. This results in executing strategic decisions towards society.

4. Adapting to Technology and Innovation

To build a successful economy, adapting to technology becomes a driving force for social change. In India, 350 million internet users exist, which gives the development managers a chance to cater to a larger ecosystem. As internet access expands, so does economic growth. Embrace creative solutions and harness technology to handle complicated problems. Adapting to change and reacting to unanticipated occurrences in time with effective measures becomes a vital part of improving livelihoods.

Is there a Rewarding Career Path with High Demand?

The development management in the social sector will have a significant growth potential in the subsequent years, opening career paths for passionate individuals. There is an open field in India to create impactful projects and programs as the country is developing. There are NGOs, corporate foundations, social enterprises, and organisations that are taking advantage of this change.

In today’s generation, the career path in the social sector is not limited only to social science graduates. Students are building their careers in development management coming from different educational and professional backgrounds for the betterment of humankind.

Individuals passionate about bringing a change in society and making a contribution can explore these career options in this field:

• Social Advocacy
• CSR Fund/Foundation
• Social Welfare Organisation
• Profit Social Organisation
• Non-Profit Organisation
• Social Enterprise
• Unilateral/Bilateral Agency

Why Choose the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM)?

In the search to figure out this vast and complex social sector with various challenges, it is crucial to choose the right path for education. While people were at an awareness stage to understand what development management was in its early stages, the Indian School of Development Management had already made its way to becoming the leader of the industry.

The way we have designed our curriculum is what sets us apart from the emerging competition in the market. We believe in action-oriented learning, a curriculum structured by experts, networking with individuals in the industry, management skills, guest lectures, and workshops are some ways that we provide holistic learning to the students.

How to Apply and become Eligible for the Course?

The social sector has been gaining the attention that it deserves over the years. A lot of companies have invested in CSR projects and want to contribute to society. Consequently, there has been an increase in job opportunities and open doors for the change-makers to build their careers.

To have a successful career in development and management in the social sector, build these skills:

• Research and Analysis
• Collaboration and Networking
• Entrepreneurial Mindset
• Critical Thinking
• Active Listening
• Determination to Bring a Change.

Here are some steps that you need to take in order to be a part of the global change-markers at ISDM.

• Register via the official website and begin your application journey.
• Appear for the online assessment, crack it, and get one step closer to your dream.
• Once you clear the assessment round, it's time for a personal interview round with the faculty.

A graduate from any stream should have a minimum of 60% marks in 10th and 12th grade.

Ready to be a Global Change-Maker?

The social sector requires individuals who have expertise, innovation, and compassion to venture into the world’s complicated challenges. Making the right choice to create an impact in the world requires adequate guidance and knowledge to reach the end goal.

Indian School of Development Management is not just an academic institution; it is a place for dynamic change-markers of our country to create meaningful changes for a sustainable life ahead. The institute's unique approach towards education, outstanding and well-trained faculty and earned name in the industry is what sets us apart.

What are you waiting for? Come join us in this noble cause of changing humankind with the right steps and a bright mind. This is your chance to be the global change-maker with ISDM!

admin | Published: 11 March, 2024

For-profit social enterprises face specific challenges due to tax regulations, such as an 18% GST on their revenue, which can discourage funders. The tax burden makes it unattractive for funders to invest, knowing that a significant portion of the funding will go towards GST payments.

Innovative finance practices can be a potential strategy for for-profit enterprises to unlock social impact funding. However, CSR laws may restrict investing in for-profit social enterprises through innovative finance instruments.

To overcome these challenges, for-profit enterprises can consider longer-term partnerships with the social sector, as the social sector expects a longer-term perspective when it comes to social change initiatives.

Additionally, tailoring cost-effective instruments for the social sector and building the capacity of donors and recipients can also be effective strategies for for-profit enterprises to attract social impact funding.

Unlocking Social Impact Funding: Strategies for For-Profit Enterprises

In the realm of for-profit social enterprises, navigating the intricate landscape of social impact funding presents a unique set of challenges. Tax regulations, such as the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on revenue, cast a shadow over potential funders, creating a hesitancy born out of the realization that a significant chunk of their investment would be earmarked for GST payments. In this blog, we delve into the complexities faced by for-profit enterprises and explore innovative strategies to unlock social impact funding, with a focus on overcoming tax burdens, complying with CSR laws, and fostering longer-term partnerships with the social sector.

The Tax Conundrum: Dissuading Potential Funders

One of the primary hurdles for for-profit social enterprises lies in the realm of taxation. The imposition of an 18% GST on revenue not only diminishes the available pool of funds but also acts as a deterrent for potential investors. It's a delicate balance for for-profit enterprises to strike – trying to fulfill their social mission while grappling with the financial burden of GST. The challenge is not merely economic but also perceptual. Funders may be wary of investing when a substantial portion of their contribution is earmarked for tax obligations rather than the actual social impact initiatives.

Innovative Finance Practices as a Potential Strategy

In the face of tax-related challenges, for-profit enterprises must look towards innovative finance practices as a potential lifeline. These practices can help redefine the financial landscape, offering creative solutions that cater to the dual objective of profitability and social impact. However, the road to innovation is not without its pitfalls. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) laws may pose a roadblock, restricting the avenues through which for-profit enterprises can access funding. It becomes imperative to navigate this regulatory maze while designing financial instruments that align with the broader goals of social impact.

Overcoming Regulatory Roadblocks: CSR Laws and Funding

CSR laws, while designed with the noble intention of promoting corporate responsibility, can inadvertently create barriers for for-profit social enterprises seeking funding. These laws traditionally focus on channeling funds into non-profit entities, leaving for-profits in a precarious position. To navigate this regulatory landscape, for-profit enterprises can explore strategic partnerships and collaborations that adhere to CSR laws while allowing for the infusion of funds into social enterprises.

Longer-Term Partnerships: Bridging the Divide

A key strategy to overcome the challenges posed by tax regulations and CSR laws is the cultivation of longer-term partnerships with the social sector. Unlike traditional for-profit ventures, social enterprises often grapple with a prolonged gestation period for social change initiatives. Funders in the social sector tend to have a proclivity for longer-term commitments, aligning with the nature of social impact initiatives. By fostering partnerships that extend beyond short-term financial gains, for-profit enterprises can not only alleviate the tax burden but also gain the trust and support of the social sector.

Tailoring Cost-Effective Instruments: Meeting Social Sector Needs

Another avenue for for-profit enterprises to attract social impact funding involves the customization of cost-effective financial instruments. Tailoring investment vehicles that specifically address the financial constraints faced by the social sector can create a win-win situation. By understanding the unique needs and challenges of the social sector, for-profit enterprises can design instruments that not only align with their own profitability goals but also serve the larger purpose of catalyzing social change.

Building Capacity: Empowering Donors and Recipients

To further enhance the attractiveness of for-profit enterprises for social impact funding, there is a need to focus on building the capacity of both donors and recipients. Donors should be equipped with a deeper understanding of the impact landscape, enabling them to make informed investment decisions. Simultaneously, recipients (social enterprises) need support in enhancing their operational efficiency and impact measurement capabilities. By investing in the capacity building of both sides, for-profit enterprises can create a more robust ecosystem that attracts and retains social impact funding.

Paving the Way for Social Impact Funding

In conclusion, the journey to unlock social impact funding for for-profit enterprises is fraught with challenges, from tax burdens to regulatory hurdles. However, innovative finance practices, longer-term partnerships, and tailored instruments can serve as beacons of hope in this landscape. The delicate balance between profitability and social impact requires strategic thinking, collaboration, and a commitment to reshaping the funding paradigm.

As for-profit enterprises chart their course in the realm of social impact, it is essential to acknowledge the role of institutions like the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM). ISDM, with its commitment to nurturing social leaders and fostering sustainable development, stands as a beacon in the journey towards unlocking social impact funding. By integrating insights from institutions like ISDM, for-profit enterprises can further refine their strategies, ensuring that the pursuit of social impact aligns seamlessly with financial sustainability. In the grand tapestry of social change, each innovative strategy and collaborative effort contributes to a future where for-profit enterprises become powerful catalysts for positive transformation.

Source: Bridging Perspectives: Innovative Finance Insights from India. ISDM February 2024
Authors: Priyanshi Chauhan, Ria Sinha
Licence: Creative Commons Attribution CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
DOI: dx.doi.org/10.58178/242.1033

Introduction:

Women have been the pillars of strength in the realm of the social sector. Dr. Kiran Bedi, Aruna Roy, and Sudha Murthy are just a few of them who have led initiatives throughout the country and brought forth transformative change in society. However, their journey has not been simple. It is marked by both challenges and triumphs. This blog will delve into this landscape, shedding light on their pivotal role in social work, the obstacles they have encountered, and how they achieved progress in society.

The Crucial Role of Women in the Social Sector:

Women have always played a critical role in society, whether it be in families, raising children, health, education, community building, politics, or the social sector. Working for causes such as education, gender equality, healthcare, and community development, women have been natural leaders in social work practice due to their innate soft skills, such as empathy, resilience, and commitment to the cause. Women have driven several initiatives that address complex social issues, such as the upliftment of marginalised communities, by working at the grassroots level and advocating policy changes benefiting the people directly.

Challenges Faced by Women in the Social Sector:

Nevertheless, there are several barriers that women face in the field of social sector preventing them from advancing their careers. Gender prejudice and discrimination in society have hampered women from holding leadership, and decision-making positions. The burden of juggling job and family obligations only makes this worse. It is also observed that caregiving responsibilities are mostly given to women rather than management tasks. Lack of institutional support, funding constraints, and inadequate resources also exacerbate the struggles of women in the social sector..

Navigating the Complexities of Social Work Practice with Women:

Women are generally frontline workers in the social sector. They provide essential services and support the vulnerable populations. Their work has been fostering positive change, such as empowering women through skill-building programs, advocating for women’s rights, and counselling survivors of domestic violence. However, cultural norms that perpetuate gender inequality and inhibit women’s agency are barriers that women have had to navigate to advance in the social sector.. Women can challenge this existing power structure and promote inclusivity and social justice by adopting a feminist approach to social work practice.

Celebrating Triumphs and Resilience:

Despite facing a myriad of challenges, women in the social sector have achieved remarkable triumphs and created a lasting impact.. Their strong drive to bring meaningful change has inspired others through resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment. Women have played diverse roles in advancing the goals of the social sector, from grassroots organisers and community leaders to policymakers and advocates. Their contribution is essential in building resilient communities and encouraging a more equitable and inclusive society. There have been countless women leaders in the social sector, but some of them have helped millions prosper through their work.

1. Aruna Roy: She has led the charge in efforts for the rights of underprivileged and marginalised groups. Additionally, she served as the spokesperson for the 2005 Right to Information Act, which was approved by the Indian parliament. Having worked strenuously for the people over the years, she is the president of the National Federation of Indian Women and the founder of Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan.
2. Dr. Kiran Bedi: She is the first Indian and the first woman to be appointed as the head of the United Nations Police and the United Nations Department of Peace Operations. She is the founder of Navjyoti India Foundation, which addresses drug abuse issues in various parts of Delhi. She also set up the India Vision Foundation in 1994, working in the field of police reforms, women empowerment, and rural and community development.
3. Rohini Nilekani: She is the founder of Araghyam, a non-profit organisation that focuses on water and sanitation issues, and she also chairs the Akshara foundation which works on providing primary education to all. A philanthropist by nature, she is the chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.
4. Sudha Murthy: She is the chairperson of the Infosys foundation which contributes through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Infosys foundation has built over 2300 houses in flood-affected areas of the country as well as contributing to building libraries and sanitation facilities. She also works for rural empowerment and upliftment of women.

The Role of Education and Training in Empowering Women in the Social Sector:

Education and training play an important role in empowering women in the social sector. Courses such as the Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP-DM) from ISDM not only provide comprehensive training to women but also equip them with policy analysis, leadership skills, knowledge, and tools to address complex societal changes effectively.. Moreover, to foster gender equality in the social sector, it is essential to promote initiatives that encourage women’s participation in decision-making processes and the development of women in this field. Women in the social sector have been inspiring others through mentorship activities such as webinars, talks, and displays of work on various social platforms. This not only encourages other women to pursue a career in social work but also promotes the social sector.

Creating a Supportive Ecosystem for Women in Social Work:

Creating an ecosystem that addresses the unique needs and challenges of women is imperative to truly harness their potential in the social sector.. This ecosystem is largely created by developing venues where women's perspectives are respected and heard, by offering networking and mentoring opportunities, and by advocating for gender-responsive policy. Destroying obstacles and paving the way for women to succeed in the social sector also requires funding the advancement of women leaders and promoting gender-inclusive policies. Diversity plays a major role in this context; bringing varied opinions and perspectives into the culture helps organisations make better-informed decisions regarding issues that they face. It also fosters innovation and creates an inclusive ecosystem for everyone to share their thoughts and visions.

Conclusion:

Women are an indispensable part of the social sector, driving change and advancing social justice. Despite the difficulties, their tenacity, will, and dedication to improving communities worldwide serve as an example to all. By tackling systemic hurdles, supporting gender equality, and investing in women's education and leadership development, we can create a more fair and inclusive social sector where women's contributions are acknowledged, recognised, and celebrated.

ISDM | Published: 04 March, 2024

Introduction:

In the modern era, which is in a constant state of flux, societal concerns are growing more complex. This constant shift puts us in the dilemma of having to navigate through this uncertain terrain and build a better future. Social entrepreneurship blends creativity and business with a deep desire to tackle various social and environmental issues. But this is rarely a rose-covered route. It takes a combination of social awareness, business acumen, and a steadfast commitment to make a difference in the world to effectively navigate the maze that is social entrepreneurship management.

What is Social Entrepreneurship:

Social entrepreneurship is prioritizing social impact over financial gain; they deal with pressing social and environmental problems like pollution and poverty. Thus, social entrepreneurs put the creation of social value ahead of maximising earnings, in stark contrast to conventional entrepreneurship. They create innovative solutions that tackle the underlying societal issues, resulting in an enduring influence along with long-lasting transformation.

What is the role of Social Entrepreneurs and what is the key to its success?

Social entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in the advancement of positive social change because they tackle the most significant issues the world is currently facing. The success and sustainability of any social entrepreneurship venture depend on its effective management. Recognising this, the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM)’s Post Graduate Programme in Development Management (PGP DM) equips social entrepreneurs like you with the management skills and mindset needed to successfully navigate the intricacies of the social sector while maintaining financial sustainability, enabling you to fulfil your missions. In addition to a wide range of tasks like effect assessment, resource mobilisation, and strategy planning, social entrepreneurship management also includes organisational leadership and stakeholder involvement. The program integrates management theories with practical projects, mentorship programs, and interactions with industry leaders to foster a supportive system where you can hone your management skills to drive meaningful impact in society.

Are there any challenges in Social Entrepreneurship Management?

While there is immense potential for creating change in society through social entrepreneurship, the path is not clear of thorns. Common challenges for entrepreneurs include resistance to innovation, scalability issues, regulatory barriers, and limited access to funding. These are further exacerbated by management challenges such as measuring the social impact and balancing financial stability. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel; ISDM’s PGP DM course prepares you to face these challenges through creativity, resilience, and a collaborative approach with mentorship from successful entrepreneurs in the domain of leading social enterprises like NASHAURA, Khalsen Homestay, HUManity, etc.

What are the opportunities for my growth?

Despite these obstacles, the sector of social entrepreneurship offers a number of chances for development and innovation. Growing awareness of the significance of social effects, along with the growth of impact investment and corporate social responsibility (CSR), has opened up new channels for funding and cooperation. The PGP DM program serves as a catalyst, blending profit-driven businesses with social impact. An increase in acknowledgement by stakeholders and government bodies also plays a pivotal role in encouraging social entrepreneurs like you to effect positive change in society.

How do I develop the mindset of a social entrepreneur?

The entrepreneurial attitude, which includes qualities like ingenuity, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to generating good progress, is the cornerstone of social entrepreneurship management. An entrepreneurial attitude is cultivated during PGP DM by accepting ambiguity, taking measured chances, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Social entrepreneurs can thus navigate the complexities of social entrepreneurship management and drive meaningful impact.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a crucial role is played by social entrepreneurship management in driving social change which is sustainable and financially feasible, by combining the commitment to address societal issues with principles of entrepreneurship. By embracing creativity, resilience, and teamwork, you may create scalable and significant solutions to address the underlying causes of a number of social and environmental crises. By empowering you with the skills to manage and lead such change and foster an entrepreneurial mindset in you, ISDM’s PGP DM course will help you build a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.