Published in Devex

By Darren Walker

Not as well known as India’s impressive economic growth story, but just as powerful is the trajectory of its vibrant philanthropic sector. This movement of giving draws on over a century-long tradition to advance urgent solutions to challenges of the moment.

For generations prior to India’s independence, and in the early days following it, individuals and families across the country committed themselves to public-oriented giving, channeling their energy and capital toward work that served a larger good. Guided by a deep sense of trusteeship, their philanthropy prioritized nation-building, particularly education, laying the groundwork for generations to come. As far back as 1892, the industrialist Jamsetji Tata established the J.N. Tata Endowment to support Indian students pursuing higher education abroad — an initiative that still exists today.

As president of the Ford Foundation, I have witnessed the legacy of these early philanthropists and nation-builders carried forward and transformed into a flourishing philanthropic sector. I have learned from many of the dynamic leaders working to expand what philanthropy in India looks like and who it serves. Together, they have contributed billions of dollars to diverse people, organizations, and ideas — and, in the process, developed a modern model of giving worthy of emulation the world over.

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