Mumbai : IndusInd Bank and Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust (BYST) have launched the ‘Holistic Rural Development Program (HRDP)’ in Dharashiv, an aspirational district of Maharashtra. The 39-month initiative targets semi-skilled, unemployed, and underemployed youth, especially women and SC/ST communities, to create self-reliant entrepreneurs. ​

The programme has reached 4,330 youth through outreach, counselled 852, and provided structured training to 205. So far, 54 enterprises have received financing and mentorship, with INR 1.97 crores in loans facilitated. Additionally, 51 local mentors have been trained to provide ongoing support. ​

By focusing on manufacturing, service, and retail sectors, the programme aims to build sustainable local economies, reduce migration, and create jobs in Maharashtra.

Lakshmi Venkataraman Venkatesan, Founding and Managing Trustee of Bharatiya Yuva Shakti Trust, said, “Microentrepreneurship plays a central role in India’s economy, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Manufacturing, service, and retail enterprises are critical to create local jobs, meet everyday needs, and keep money circulating within the community. By giving young people structured support to enter these three sectors, the programme helps them move from informal work or unemployment into stable, small businesses that can grow in a realistic and steady way.”​

The partnership continues to strengthen community-led enterprise growth and positions local youth as key drivers of economic stability in the region.