Editorial

All of our present and future is in some measure defined by what has passed. This special edition of Horizons is an act of looking back. It is a collection of the finest stories, analyses, interviews and more that have been featured in the magazine since its launch in July 2018. Back then the objective was to produce a high-quality publication that would shine a light on the wide spectrum of social uplift efforts undertaken by the Tata Trusts, while also being a platform to raise and discuss issues concerning the development sector. Our endeavour to do justice to that objective is reflected in this compilation, which is less a chronicling of standout programmes and more about the people and communities enabled by them.

Trying to craft Horizons in the image we envisioned has been a journey of discovery for our team, offering glimpses of an India beyond the jargon of social development, and showing how tough it is to make a difference in conditions that can rarely be controlled. It became clear to us, soon enough, that there’s a whole lot more to realising the potential of an initiative than noble intentions, the allocation of resources and soundness of design. It takes fortitude and commitment, perseverance and humility to pull off any programme in the social sphere; to connect with the people you seek to help and ensure that your exertions are worth it — in the longer term. The Tata Trusts do not lack for these attributes.

Our selection for this edition showcases a blend of the best content over the years. None of this would have been possible, of course, without the support of a host of people from within the Trusts, starting with our chairman, Ratan Tata, who has been a source of constant encouragement. We are also grateful to our colleagues from the programme teams, who have helped us comprehend the nuances of particular initiatives, arranged site visits and were keen facilitators in bringing these stories to light. Not least, we are thankful to our readers — the majority of whom access Horizons digitally — for boosting us simply by continuing to read what we produce.

Christabelle Noronha

We hope you will help us make Horizons better with your valuable feedback. Please do write to us at horizons@tatatrusts.org.