Rural Mentoring: A Path to Equality and Economic Growth

The disparities between urban and rural India across various economic parameters are stark. Rural mentoring programs can significantly empower communities and help build profitable business models, ultimately contributing to the economy at large.

The pandemic has impacted every facet of society, with the Indian economy shrinking by nearly 23.9% in June 2020, marking its most significant fall in four decades. This decline is not only economic but also moral, as the rural population has borne the brunt of income and other inequalities. Instead of focusing on cause and effect, it is more beneficial to explore avenues for development and resilience.

At this inflection point in history, a choice must be made between short-term interventions and long-term strategies that will build a resilient nation capable of future leadership. COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of robust models, making long-term strategies the prudent choice. The rural growth story is essential to this paradigm. For too long, the development of urban centers has overshadowed rural areas, focusing primarily on sectors with high economic impact.

Providing opportunities is just the first step; enabling people to build on these opportunities is crucial. What was once informal counseling now falls under the structured purview of mentoring. Although mentoring has gained popularity in urban regions, the current situation, where many professionals have lost jobs, highlights the vital role rural mentoring can play. In transitioning markets, such as Yemmiganur, moving from artisanal jobs to corporate opportunities, mentoring acts as a catalyst for growth and resilience. It empowers rural employees to develop skills beyond their daily tasks, with access to leaders from corporate India instilling confidence and future-building capabilities.

IndiVillage has implemented a rigorous corporate mentoring program featuring leaders from some of the country’s finest companies. Over six months, first-time managers at IndiVillage receive mentoring, helping them take ownership, define nuanced career paths, and enhance their leadership abilities. This program is expected to become a recurring initiative, adding value to teams in Yemmiganur, Andhra Pradesh, and Raichur, Karnataka. Mentors also benefit from this initiative, using freed-up time from reduced travel to develop ideas and make meaningful contributions.

The success of IndiVillage’s purpose-led profit model demonstrates that doing business for good is not a trade-off between morality and profitability. Conscious business and capitalism can be mutually inclusive, impactful, and lucrative. The impact sourcing model at IndiVillage has shown that this approach can be transformative. As more companies explore similar models, it is essential to develop systems that empower leaders to define and deliver unique contributions. India Inc. must focus on creating equal opportunities and augmenting collective intelligence at scale. This will create an economy resilient to crises and driven by a clear conscience, moving beyond tactical and cost-based wins to sustainable growth and development.