A new book on Indian public policy shows how philanthropy needs to evolve for wide-reaching benefits

India – a land of widespread poverty and illiteracy in 1947 – has undoubtedly transformed since then, with faster poverty reduction since the 1991 reforms. Life expectancy has doubled in the last 75 years – from 35 in 1950 to 71 now. While literacy at the time of the 1951 census was around 18%, today almost all Indian children in the 6–14-year age group attend school.

However, learning poverty remains a significant challenge. Incremental progress is occurring, but more needs to happen. India produced 4.2% of global GDP in 1950, a ratio that has slipped to 3.4% now, even as it harbours 18% of the world’s population. To rise to its incredible potential, what India needs is rapid growth and inclusive development.

To what extent is Indian philanthropy oriented towards these goals? In FY 2024, an amount of Rs 1,31,000 crore found its way towards philanthropic projects in India. Of this amount, roughly 30% came from retail sources, 18% from foreign foundations, 25% from corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds and 26% from philanthropy practised by high and ultra-high net-worth individuals (HNIs and UHNIs).

Retail giving is unable to take a long-term view as it is highly unorganised, as well as oriented towards immediate community needs and...

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