Ratan Tata’s life and a thought for youngsters of today:

The country and the world were in mourning when the news broke on 9th October that Ratan Tata a doyen of Indian Industry was no more!

In the days that followed social media was flooded with messages from all sections of society – fellow industrialists, senior corporate executives and CEOs, senior folks from the government. I was waiting for the messages to subside which it has now. The reason was to see what do people remember, admire or love a man like Ratan Tata for? After all, in the 21 years Ratan Tata led the Tata Group, revenue grew over 40 times, and profit over 50 times, Global Acquisitions that made every Indian proud, and there may not be another individual business leaders in the history of India with so much success.

What fascinated me the most and hence the wait for the messages and eulogies to subside, was the fact that a huge majority of the posts admired, respected and adored him not for his business successes but for his greatness as a human being, his concern for society, his contribution to a better society, and even his love for dogs. And, in this I saw a message for the youth of the country while choosing careers – what finally matters is what you do for others! Your contribution, your service, your care and concern. While he led India’s industrial growth, his heartbeat for social change. His work in healthcare, rural development, education, and women’s empowerment touched millions, proving that success is only meaningful when shared with those in need.

 Today, as we honor his life, we’re left with a question that echoes his purpose: What legacy will we create for the generations that follow us? Ratan Tata’s story reminds us that success is measured not only by what we build but by how we lift others in the process.

 The Path Less Taken - Building a Career in Social Impact:

 For many young people, the career roadmap seems straightforward: tech, finance, corporate roles. But there’s another path that holds immense meaning—a path Tata himself walked with integrity and purpose: the social sector. In a world grappling with complex issues—from healthcare access and education inequality to climate change—the need for passionate, skilled leaders in the social sector has never been more urgent.

Imagine waking up each day knowing that your work directly impacts lives, that your skills are creating pathways to better healthcare, empowering farmers, or transforming schools in underserved communities. A career in social impact isn’t a fallback option; it’s a deliberate choice to create real, lasting change. Tata’s life is a powerful testament to this choice, reminding us that true success is woven with compassion, resilience, and a sense of duty to society.

 Introducing Development Management - A New Field for Change-Makers:

Responding to the growing need for leaders who can navigate the complexities of the social sector, Development Management has emerged as a transformative field. Since 2016, the Indian School of Development Management (ISDM) has been pioneering this game-changing approach, training young leaders to step up where the world needs them most.

Development Management combines the strategic rigour of business with the mission-driven focus of social impact, creating a unique blend of skills essential for today’s challenges. ISDM’s program prepares students to go beyond theory and develop the hands-on expertise needed to lead effectively—skills like project management, team leadership, and strategic problem-solving—all through the lens of social change.

It’s about preparing leaders who can build resilient organizations, mobilize communities, and scale initiatives that address pressing social issues. Development Management offers a toolkit that’s both practical and transformative, creating a new generation of leaders who can tackle the sector’s toughest challenges and find sustainable solutions.

 Why the Social Sector Needs You Now More Than Ever:

 Young people are the driving force behind innovation, resilience, and change. The social sector is calling for leaders who bring fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and the courage to confront problems head-on. But to truly make an impact, passion alone isn’t enough. Real change requires skills, strategy, and a deep understanding of complex social systems.

If you’re inspired by Tata’s legacy and considering a career with purpose, here’s what a future in the social sector can offer:

Direct Impact on People’s Lives: Your work has immediate, visible effects—from improving healthcare delivery to advancing education and protecting the environment.

Opportunities for Leadership: The social sector needs people who can take charge, mobilize teams, and bring innovative solutions to life.

Problem-Solving in Action: Development Management teaches you to tackle challenges at their roots, not just analyze them, helping you drive change where it matters most.

Community and Connection: Working in the social sector surrounds you with like-minded individuals, all united by a shared vision to create a better world.

ISDM’s Development Management programs are crafted to support this journey, equipping students with the skills to thrive in a sector that requires both head and heart. Through practical training and fieldwork, students learn to lead with empathy, manage with strategy, and scale solutions that matter.

Honoring Ratan Tata’s Legacy by Building a Better Future:

Ratan Tata’s life reminds us of what’s possible when we use our influence to make a difference. His story is one of service, compassion, and a relentless commitment to uplifting others. Tata’s legacy calls us to step forward, to use our skills and resources to create meaningful change and to find purpose beyond ourselves.

If you’re a young person wondering what your impact could be, consider the journey Tata walked. The social sector offers a path to fulfilment, growth, and contribution that few other careers can match. This path isn’t about giving up on ambition—it’s about using ambition to fuel something bigger, something that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and builds the future.

Let’s honor Ratan Tata’s legacy—not only in words but in actions. Join the movement to shape a world that reflects his values of justice, hope, and compassion. Together, let’s create a legacy that the generations to come will be proud of.