Development Alternatives, under it’s Training & Capacity Building (T&CB) division, conducted a focused session on 21 November 2025 for 20 IIS Group ‘B’ Junior Grade probationers. The aim was simple: help the trainees build a sharper understanding of how civil society contributes to India’s development journey.

The 45-minute classroom segment began with a quick pre-assessment, then opened into a lively discussion on why NGOs exist, how government–NGO partnerships strengthen public initiatives, and where the Public–Private Partnership model fits into accelerating social change. The group was also introduced to the mission and work of the Development Alternatives Group, with its long-standing emphasis on sustainable and inclusive development.

To ground the theory in practice, the session moved into the field. The probationers visited DA’s Pond Rejuvenation site in Sidipur Village, Gautam Buddha Nagar, a key intervention under the Natural Ecosystem Restoration programme. At the site, they saw how the rejuvenated village pond—restored through desilting, inlet–outlet repairs, and catchment strengthening—works only when paired with strong community ownership. The team learned how DA’s Social Behaviour Change Communication efforts make these technical investments last by encouraging stewardship among local residents.

Conversations with villagers added another layer. Residents spoke about how the restored pond has improved water security, supported biodiversity, and strengthened overall well-being. The visit prompted the trainees to reflect on the power of decentralised resource management and the role responsive local institutions play in building rural resilience.

By combining classroom learning with on-ground exposure, the training offered the probationers a clear view of how sustainable development actually takes shape. It also highlighted the influence trained communicators can have in shaping public perception, policy engagement, and behaviour change—skills central to the IIS mandate.