Events

Shaping Future Jobs in India | Consultation on Emerging Job Opportunities & Employability Gaps Consultation on “Emerging Job Opportunities and Employability Gaps: Challenges and Solutions for 21st-Century Jobs” on December 16, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The National Council of YMCAs of India, Bharat Yuvak Bhavan, Jai Singh Road, New Delhi – 110 001 The National Council of YMCAs of India hosted a consultation on Emerging Job Opportunities and Employability Gaps to deliberate on the evolving requirements of the 21st century workforce. The consultation witnessed the participation of around 20 representatives, including members from NGOs and industry leaders, who came together to discuss emerging skill demands, workforce challenges, and inclusive solutions in the context of India’s transition into the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The consultation was represented by senior members from YMCA and partner initiatives, including Mr. Eldo N. V., National General Secretary, National Council of YMCAs of India, Mr. Ashish Thorat, Project Country Lead, International Youth Foundation; Mr. Deepak Singh, National Project Manager and India Coordinator, International Youth Foundation; and Fr. Afilash, Consultant, National Council of YMCAs of India. During the consultation, it was shared that YMCA New Delhi, in collaboration with World YMCA, plans to support 10,000 students annually across India through structured vocational skilling programmes. These initiatives will cater to two key age groups: a preparatory stage for youth aged 15–17 years, and an employability stage for individuals aged 18–35 years, with a focus on enhancing job readiness and workforce integration. Adv. Dr. K. C. George, CEO, Deepalaya, addressed the audience and shared insights from an NGO perspective on emerging job opportunities and workforce preparedness. He emphasised the importance of adopting a people-centric and need-based approach to skilling initiatives, particularly when working with underserved communities. Key points highlighted by Adv. Dr. K. C. George included:  The need for introspection and counselling before implementing skilling programmes Being sensitive to the causes of underserved communities Providing orientation programmes for underprivileged students Designing need-based interventions rather than generic training models Building confidence and communication skills, including the ability to respond effectively Recognising healthcare as a promising sector, particularly:o Elderly careo After-care support for youth transitioning out of Institutional Care He also suggested focused initiatives such as job fairs with special emphasis on women’s participation and inclusion. The Deepalaya team including Ms. Neha Sharma, Director – Programs; Mr. Kuriyan Behanan, Deputy Director – HR & Administration; and Ms. Shalini Rohtagi, Secretary to the CEO actively participated in the brainstorming sessions. From the industry perspective, Ms. Swati, Joint Director at ASSOCHAM, addressed the participants and highlighted the evolving expectations of industries in the context of rapid technological change. She emphasised the growing demand for industry-aligned skills, adaptability, and continuous learning to remain relevant in the modern workplace. Ms. Swati underscored the importance of stronger collaboration between training institutions, industry bodies, and employers to bridge employability gaps and ensure smoother school-to-work and training-to-employment transitions. Sharing the recruiter’s viewpoint, Mr. Manjit Kumar Maini, Chief Business Officer at Unison International, spoke about the practical challenges faced during recruitment processes. He highlighted that while technical competencies are important, recruiters increasingly look for work readiness, communication skills, confidence, and attitude among candidates. Mr. Maini stressed that candidates who demonstrate adaptability, problem-solving ability, and interpersonal skills are more likely to succeed in competitive job markets, particularly in emerging and service-oriented sectors. The consultation concluded with a shared commitment among participants towards inclusive skilling, workforce readiness, and collaborative action to ensure that no youth is left behind. The session was followed by lunch and informal networking, providing participants an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.

Capacity Building for Impact 8th December 2025, Adv. Dr. K C George, CEO – Deepalaya, led an engaging online session on Proposal Writing and Report Making for employees across Deepalaya projects in India. Dr. George shared valuable insights on developing strong technical and financial proposals, stressing the importance of aligning with donor expectations and ensuring every initiative leads to measurable outputs, outcomes, and long-term community impact. He reiterated that beneficiaries must remain at the heart of all our efforts, and that monitoring, evaluation, and clear communication are crucial for impactful project implementation. He further encouraged involving grassroot functionaries in proposal development, as they best understand community needs. The 90–minute session, attended by over 50 participants, was interactive, filled with discussions, feedback, queries, and collaborative brainstorming.Deepalaya continues to invest in capacity building to enhance the quality of its development work.

Deepalaya is honoured to announce a moment of great pride! Deepalaya is delighted to share that our CEO and Secretary, Adv. Dr. K. C. George has received the Dr. S. Balaraman Memorial Human Rights Defender Award in Thiruvananthapuram. The recognition was presented during the Dr. S. Balaraman Memorial Human Rights Lecture organised by the Civil Rights and Social Justice Society. This honour acknowledges his outstanding contribution to human rights protection, social equity, and the upliftment of marginalised communities. His dedicated leadership continues to inspire our mission and the wider development sector. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. George on this distinguished achievement.

Celebrating Strength and Spirit at the District Para Athletics and Powerlifting Championship Deepalaya students from our special unit, Sambhav demonstrated exceptional determination and enthusiasm at the District Para Athletics and Powerlifting Championship organised by the Para Sports Association. Over hundreds of students from various schools and NGOs participated. Our 24 participating students from Sambhav Project showcased their abilities in running, short put, Disc throw etc. The presence of IAS Mr. Abhinav Goel along with other dignitaries including Chairman of the Paralympics committee of India, Mr. Satya Yadav made the event even more motivating.The championship promoted inclusion physical fitness skill building and joyful participation.

Deepalaya Celebrates the International Day for Persons with Disabilities An inspiring day unfolded at Deepalaya Center at Sanjay colony as all celebrated the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Children together participated enthusiastically in creative activities that reflected the potential in each of them. At Deepalaya we make sure to embrace diversity and empower all abilities.

Deepalaya Schools Host Carnatic Music Rendition to Inspire Students Deepalaya Schools at Gusbethi (Haryana), and Kalkaji Extension (New Delhi), hosted an inspiring musical journey on 26 and 27 November 2025, celebrating the essence of Carnatic classical music. Renowned vocalist Dr. Manakkala Gopalakrishnan mesmerized students with his soulful renditions, while Mr. A. J. Philip, former Chief Executive of Deepalaya, beautifully explained the importance of the famous poems and translated verses by the legendary poet Ulloor S. Iyer. Dr. Adarsh Sharma, former Director of NIPCCD, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest at Gusbethi alongside Deepalaya board members, Chief Executive and the school management team. The programme was a harmonious tribute to Karnataka’s rich musical heritage and a reflection of India’s cultural unity.

Deepalaya CEO, Dr. K. C. George was recently felicitated at a special programme organised by Distress Management Collective India Deepalaya CEO, Dr. K. C. George, was recently felicitated at a special programme organised by Distress Management Collective India on 16 November 2025. Held at the Constitution Club of India, New Delhi the honour recognized his remarkable contributions to child development, women’s empowerment, and psychosocial counselling, along with his compassionate efforts to uplift vulnerable communities. The programme was graced by distinguished guests including Justice Kurian Joseph (Former Judge, Supreme Court of India), Shri K. J. Alphons (IAS Former Union Minister, Govt.of India), Shri Subu Rahman (IAAS, Principal Accountant General, Government of Odisha), Shri Babu Panicker (Managing Director, Panicker Travels), Adv. Manoj George and Adv. Deepak Prakash (Supreme Court of India) among several other eminent dignitaries and had participation from more than 200 members. The participants were thrilled to see students of Deepalaya Kalkaji School performing Deepalaya’s Anthem song.

Felicitation of Adv. Dr. K C George, Secretary and Chief Executive, Deepalaya at AIIMS Felicitation of Adv. Dr. K C George, Secretary and Chief Executive, Deepalaya at AIIMS, New Delhi on 6th November 2025 on the occasion of National Cancer Awareness Day 2025 for his immense contribution in spreading awareness about Cervical Cancer by way of facilitating vaccination for more than 800 girl children between the age of 9-15 yrs. Dr. George also helped cancer patients in the last stages of their illness through palliative counselling and by providing financial, social, and psychological support, helping them gain confidence in facing this dreaded disease at the final stage of their lives. As part of the Deepalaya intervention, Dr. George ensured that vaccination drives were conducted in Deepalaya schools as well as in various community clusters where numerous programs for women were organized.

“Inspire to Aspire” – A motivational talk to the young learners in Vivekananda Global University was organised by Deepalaya on 4th November 2025. Adv. Dr. K. C. George, Secretary & CEO, Deepalaya, conducted this session which benefitted more than 100 students and teachers from the Department of Development Studies, VGU. In his address, Dr. George deliberated upon the inspirational spark one has to generate within himself, which could be the road map for his career and aspirations one holds. Citing personal examples, he emphasised the timeline in acknowledging the inspiration which could ultimately lead to helping someone help himself. In his deliberations, he also focused upon complimenting others, failing which mental health illness and disorders can develop. He encouraged students to stay positive, set goals, and build confidence. He also shared that the best return gift children can give their parents, society, and country is to be happy, successful, and responsible citizens of this nation. His message, under the theme “Inspire to Aspire,” motivated students to dream big, work hard, and live with kindness and purpose.

Dr. K. C. George Inaugurates She Can Excellence Awards Deepalaya proudly shares that Dr. K. C. George, Chief Executive and Secretary of Deepalaya, inaugurated this year’s She Can Excellence Awards organized by the Dianalds New Era Care Foundation. The prestigious event celebrated the outstanding achievements and contributions of women who are creating positive change in society.