With a comprehensive background spanning eight years, Dipak has cultivated expertise in both corporate environments and multifaceted developmental initiatives. His professional endeavors have revolved around governance, watershed management, climate-resilient ecosystems, livelihood enhancement, education, healthcare, sanitation & nutrition, gender equality, and the promotion of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Primarily focusing on tribal communities, he has undertaken the overall management of diverse projects, integrating these cross-cutting themes to facilitate holistic development and sustainable progress.
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/dipak-kumar-bhagat-85233999/
Twitter: @dipak_52
Insta: dipakbhagat52
Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. Following my graduation from IIFM, my journey has been a continuous voyage of learning and exploration. Frequently, I’ve dared to step out of my comfort zone, embracing new challenges and experiences. Consequently, my career path has been marked by numerous peaks and valleys, encompassing roles in diverse sectors such as government agencies, corporations, and NGOs.
After completing my studies at IIFM, I embarked on my professional journey with the Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency (GSWMA). Spending two years with GSWMA provided me with invaluable insights into Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP) and community engagement. However, driven by a desire for growth, I decided to pursue greater opportunities. Subsequently, I transitioned to Delhi to prepare for the UPSC examination. During this period, I briefly worked as a relationship manager at HDFC Bank in Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Presently, I am engaged in rural development efforts with Transform Rural India (TRI), where I have been actively contributing for more than three years, continuing to make meaningful strides in my professional journey.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. My journey has been rich with learning experiences and significant milestones. Following my time at IIFM, I began my professional career with the Gujarat State Watershed Management Agency (GSWMA), marking my entry into the grassroots development sector. Swiftly adapting, I seized opportunities to demonstrate my expertise, ultimately influencing policy decisions within the organization. My contributions spanned non-technological realms such as designing capacity-building and training programs, as well as technical domains like real-time monitoring through web GIS and the development of biophysical survey tools.
Preparing for the UPSC examination broadened my understanding across humanitarian and scientific disciplines, fostering heightened logical thinking and reasoning abilities. It deepened my comprehension of societal systems. Transitioning to the role of training manager in the insurance sector refined my financial planning skills.
Returning to the development sector at the Watershed Organization Trust (WOTR) in Jharkhand, I further honed my expertise in watershed management and climate change, demonstrating proficiency in project management. I spearheaded the development of a low-cost nursery model aimed at maximizing horticultural income.
Q. How has been your experience in your current Organization-TRI? What all areas have you been working here? Tell us in detail about the vision of TRI.
A. My tenure with Transform Rural India (TRI) has been an immensely enriching experience. As an exponentially growing nonprofit organization, TRI boasts a flat hierarchy structure and a commendable work culture. Its mission is to transform the most vulnerable 100000 villages in India into flourishing localities, through its “thoughtful tarakki” model using multidimensional approach involving Samaj, Sarkar and bazaar. The transformation is localized, owned and driven by community and self sustainable. Its vision is to provide lifetime equal opportunity with inter-generational equity for India’s villages.
TRI operates through three key practices:
- Public Policy in Action (PPIA): Nudge units working in government departments and programs to bring changes in government policies.
- Community Action Lab (CAL): Praxis way to prototyping solutions for stranded India and evidence to policy.
- Bending Market for Flourishing Localities: Initiatives aimed at fostering market dynamics conducive to rural development.
Initially, I contributed to the Farm Prosperity theme at TRI, subsequently transitioning to a governance project at the grassroots level. Following organizational structural changes, I have assumed leadership within one of TRI’s Community Action Labs located in Noamundi, West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand, serving as a practitioner. Working in CAL is a challenging task, demanding a breadth of knowledge and experience across various thematic areas. Presently, I am deeply engaged in initiatives spanning livelihood enhancement (both farm and non-farm), governance, healthcare, sanitation and nutrition, gender equality, skill development, MSME promotion, and the establishment of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). Additionally, I am spearheading the development of sub-sector clusters focused on bamboo and spices, aiming to boost economic prospects within these domains.
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. Witnessing the impact of my efforts on the underserved communities, and seeing smiles bloom fills me with profound and enduring satisfaction. When coupled with opportunities for learning and heartfelt appreciation, the experience becomes even more gratifying. Thus, reflecting on my career journey thus far, I find that working on Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) with GSWMA stands out as the most fulfilling chapter.
The IWMP project I was involved in extended its benefits to over 100 villages, leaving a tangible mark on the larger community. During this period, I underwent exponential personal and professional growth, seizing numerous opportunities to excel and garner recognition from senior management. Contributing to policy formulation and implementing organizational changes added depth to my experience.
Moreover, my current role at TRI has been equally rewarding. This organization offers a stimulating environment where I can engage with multifaceted development themes, enriching both my professional skills and personal growth.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
A. IIFM played a pivotal role in laying the foundation of my understanding of the development sector. Through field visits, tours, and internships, I gained invaluable insights that prepared me for grassroots-level work. These experiences equipped me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in my career, enabling me to make significant contributions and prove my capabilities consistently.
Q. Who (or what) are the biggest influences or drivers in your careers? What would be your advice to freshers and IIFM graduates who are looking to choose similar sectors/roles?
A. I’ve found that my career trajectory has been shaped more by internal motivations than external influences. As time passed, I found myself adapting and evolving along with it. Often, my journey unfolded in ways that were more spontaneous than meticulously planned.
For young graduates from IIFM, I strongly recommend dedicating the initial 2-3 years to grassroots work. Immersing oneself in such environments, particularly in integrated watershed projects, offers invaluable and diverse learning experiences. Additionally, I encourage taking calculated risks, stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and actively seeking out opportunities for growth and advancement.
Q. How did you decide to go for higher studies post IIFM? And how was the experience?
A. Since childhood, my dream was to become a police officer. However, fueled by my fascination with technology and a lack of awareness about UPSC, I pursued engineering in computer science instead. Concurrently, I harbored reservations about governmental roles due to systemic corruption. My aspirations also included pursuing an MBA, leading me to enroll at IIFM.
Upon joining GSWMA, a semi-governmental agency, I gained firsthand exposure to bureaucracy. Witnessing the potential for positive change wielded by individuals in influential bureaucratic positions, I resolved to contribute to such endeavors. Motivated by this realization and driven by the desire to fulfill my childhood dream of becoming an IPS officer, I took a leap of faith. Transitioning to Delhi, I embarked on an exploration of UPSC opportunities, dedicating 2 – 3 months to familiarizing myself with its intricacies before committing to thorough preparation.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. My two years at IIFM were brimming with fond memories. Engaging in LAN gaming sessions became a cherished daily ritual, fostering camaraderie among peers. Our team’s consecutive victories in the “dahi handi phod” competition over two years, where we even set a record, stand out as particularly memorable achievements.
Furthermore, my involvement in various committees, including the mess committee, provided opportunities to contribute to the organization of numerous events. Playing a role in coordinating lunches and dinners during these gatherings remains a highlight of my time at IIFM, etching itself as one of my favorite memories from those two years.
Q. In hindsight, what was the biggest contribution or takeaway from IIFM that you think played a critical role in shaping you as an individual or professional?
A. Field visits, tours, and internships served as invaluable guides in honing my project planning skills. Equipped with the knowledge and awareness instilled in me at IIFM, I swiftly transitioned into effective action on the ground. This enabled me to capture the attention of top management and seize numerous opportunities to showcase my abilities, thereby affirming my capabilities through performance.
Q. The best buddies / seniors /faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you would like to share?
A. Archit Sahare, my roommate, along with Binay Soren, Bhagwat Ahirwar, and Sanjay Kuril, formed my closest circle of friends at IIFM. Archit and I shared a particular affinity, often embarking on explorations of local markets and cuisines together. Even now, we maintain our connection through frequent phone calls and mutual support.
I am deeply grateful to the entire faculty at IIFM, whose collective efforts significantly contributed to my learning experience. Among them, I regarded Manmohan Sir as a mentor figure. Following our batch’s convocation, I made a special visit to his home to express my gratitude.
Q. As an alumni, what’s your advice to freshers or those who are joining IIFM to get best out of the 2 years there?
A. Absorb every bit of knowledge from classroom sessions and field visits during your time at IIFM. Opt for a meaningful summer internship to broaden your understanding further. Cultivate strong connections with alumni, as their guidance can be invaluable in navigating your career path. And above all, cherish and make the most of these two years at IIFM, these will become cherished memories you’ll long remember, and opportunities like this may not come around again easily.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family, and anything else you want to add?
A. My two young children occupy much of my time outside of work, leaving little room for pursuing my hobbies. Perhaps in the next 2-3 years, as they grow older, I’ll find the opportunity to devote time once again to activities like meditation, drawing, and engaging in physical games.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. The Shiva Trilogy by Amish holds a special place as my favorite book.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
A. There are numerous batchmates from my own class as well as those from the senior and junior batches at IIFM who are excelling in their respective fields. Their remarkable journeys and stories serve as potent sources of motivation for many IIFMites. Additionally, I am eager to hear the words of wisdom from my mentors at TRI, Anish and Anirban Sir, as I am confident that their insights will be invaluable and inspiring.