Catalyst alumnus Souma Sekhar Gangopadhyay (Senior Associate, PwC) along with Devna Joshi and Abhiir Bhalla co-authored a significant report called “The India Opportunity: Developing Resilient Electronics Supply Chain” with contributions from Srividya Krishnan and Khyati Bhatnagar that was released by Mr. Piyush Goyal, the Honourable Minister of Commerce and Industries of the Government of India and Sanjeev Krishnan, Chairman, PwC India at Raisina Dialogue of 2024 in collaboration with Observer Research Foundation (ORF). Jhanvi Tripathi, Amoha Basrur, Aditya Bhan and Soumya Bhowmick were the authors from ORF.
Souma was mentored at Catalyst for a career in the social sector while he was pursuing Bachelors in English Literature at Scottish Church Kolkata. He was selected for Masters in Public Policy at Tata Institute of Social Sciences.

“..Excellent online support for TISS. Concise and comprehensive monthly GK modules.”
Souma Sekhar Gangopadhyay : Converted Masters in Public Policy, TISS Hyderabad
Here’s a summary and analysis of the report :
Overview:
- Global Uncertainty: Geopolitical realignments and supply chain disruptions have created global economic uncertainty, revealing vulnerabilities due to overreliance on a few countries for critical materials and products.
- India’s ESDM Sector: India’s ESDM (Electronic System Design and Manufacturing) sector has grown significantly, particularly in mobile phone production, due to competitive advantages like competitive wages, a skilled workforce, and favorable geopolitical positioning.
- Challenges and Opportunities: Dependence on foreign materials emphasizes the need for reliable sourcing. The text suggests a multi-faceted approach involving collaborations, resource security measures, IP protection, and policy interventions.
Key Findings:
- Attractiveness of India: Competitive wages, skilled workforce, and geopolitical factors make India an attractive manufacturing destination, especially for ESDM.
- Strategic Collaborations: Collaboration with other countries can help relocate sub-component value chains, allowing India to develop niche advantages and achieve self-reliance.
- Resource Security: Securing critical mineral resources is crucial for achieving value chain localization in electronics. Leveraging India’s mineral reserves and building partnerships with friendly countries is essential.
- Multi-pronged Approach: A comprehensive strategy is needed, focusing on technology, talent, infrastructure, and trade to strengthen India’s position in the ESDM sector.
Way Forward:
- Diversification Strategies: On-shoring, near-shoring, and friend-shoring are emphasized for value chain security. The text suggests that India is moving towards these strategies due to the criticality of the ESDM sector for economic growth and employment.
- Strategic Partnerships: Given India’s vulnerability, strategic international partnerships are crucial, especially for securing mineral resources. Careful selection of dependable partners for the next decade is highlighted.
- Investment in Partners: In addition to building domestic capabilities, India needs to invest in its international partners. The text emphasizes the importance of choosing partners who are dependable and can contribute to cohesive regional development.
- Consideration of Geopolitical Risks: Geopolitical risks and external shocks will continue to influence trade policy. India must choose partners with a focus on long-term growth and stability.
The next decade is crucial for India’s ESDM sector, and a proactive and diversified approach is recommended to navigate global uncertainties. Strategic partnerships, resource security, and a focus on building domestic capabilities are key components of the suggested roadmap. The text underscores the need for careful decision-making in choosing dependable partners for a cohesive development journey.
The Master of Arts in Public Policy and Governance program at the School of Public Policy and Governance, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to become effective global policymakers. Here’s an overview of the program:
Program Highlights:
- Duration: The program spans two years, providing a comprehensive understanding of policy frameworks and their application in socio-political and economic contexts.
- Objective: The primary objective is to develop students’ abilities to analyze, design, and evaluate policies. This involves studying policy institutions and processes, assessing policy impacts through data analysis and qualitative insights, and engaging with diverse policy settings to formulate effective solutions.
- Key Focus Areas:
- Policy Architecture: Understanding and designing policy frameworks and processes.
- Policy Evaluation: Assessing policy impact using both micro and big data, along with qualitative field insights.
- Policy Design: Acquiring the acumen to design policies and solutions tailored to diverse contexts.
- Principled Policy Recommendations: The program emphasizes making informed policy recommendations grounded in principles of equity, justice, and sustainability.
- Real-World Experience: The second year of the program is dedicated to acquiring real-world experience. Students undertake capstone projects in their chosen Policy Area Concentration, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills to practical policy research and interventions.
Program Structure:
- First Year: Focuses on building foundational knowledge in policy analysis, frameworks, and evaluation techniques.
- Second Year: Emphasizes hands-on experience through capstone projects in students’ chosen Policy Area Concentrations.

Unique Features:
- Global Perspective: The program prepares students to engage with policy institutions at both global and local levels, fostering a global perspective on policymaking.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Integrates micro and big data analysis with qualitative field insights, providing a holistic understanding of policy dynamics.
- Ethical and Sustainable Policy: Highlights the importance of embedding policy recommendations in principles of equity, justice, and sustainability.
Are you interested in a rewarding career with the social sector – sustainability – climate action ? Register for a Career Mapping Session. Here are some ways Catalyst can help you:
- Entrance Exam Preparation: Catalyst provides specialised coaching and guidance for various entrance exams related to social sciences, public policy, and development studies. This includes exams for admissions into top institutions like TISS (Tata Institute of Social Sciences), IIT, IIPH (Indian Institutes of Public Health), Azim Premji University, and others. Comprehensive study materials, mock exams, and expert guidance are provided to ensure students are well-prepared.
- Career Mapping: Catalyst offers career mapping services to help individuals identify their strengths, interests, and career goals within the social sector. This includes helping students understand the various career paths available, such as social work, public health, development studies, and more.
- Skill Development: The social sector demands a unique skill set. Catalyst conducts skill development programs that focus on essential skills like research, data analysis, project management, and communication. These skills are vital for success in roles related to policy analysis, program management, and advocacy.
- Internship and Project Support: Catalyst assists students in finding relevant internships and projects within the social sector. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building practical skills and understanding real-world challenges in areas like healthcare, education, and community development.
- Interview Preparation: For students aiming to secure admissions to prestigious institutions or land jobs in the social sector, Catalyst conducts interview preparation sessions. This includes mock interviews, feedback, and guidance on how to present their skills and experiences effectively.
- Networking Opportunities: Catalyst organises events, workshops, and seminars that provide networking opportunities with professionals and organisations in the social sector. Building a strong professional network is essential for career growth and finding job opportunities.
- Mentorship: Experienced mentors from Catalyst provide one-on-one guidance and support to students and professionals. They offer insights into the industry, share their experiences, and help mentees navigate their career paths.
- Customised Training: Catalyst understands that individuals come from diverse backgrounds and have different career aspirations. They offer customised training programs tailored to the unique needs and goals of each student or professional.
- Continuous Learning: The social sector is dynamic, and professionals need to stay updated with the latest developments. Catalyst offers continuous learning opportunities through webinars, workshops, and access to relevant publications and resources.
- Placement Support: Catalyst provides assistance in job placements and fellowships within the social sector. They connect students and professionals with organisations that align with their career goals.
About Catalyst: Since 2011, students and working professionals have been able to successfully craft a career with Bachelors and Masters programmes offered by TISS, Azim Premji University, TERI, XIM, IIT, Nirmala Niketan, NLSIU, Sciences Po, London School of Economics and Political Science, Symbiosis, IIMC, ACJ, XIC, JNU, Ambedkar University et al with capacity building training for development sector and climate action at Catalyst.
Like, Follow, Share and Subscribe with Us for Rewarding Career Opportunities in the Social Sector :
You may also be interested in :

Market Math vs. School Math: Indian Study Highlights Stark Divide in Children’s Arithmetic Skills

Social Scientists and Climate Action Professionals are in High Demand: Nobel Laureate Esther Duflo

Conclave on Sustainable and Inclusive Growth through Entrepreneurship held in Kolkata and Sunderbans

India Ranks 4th on Global Meaningfulness Index

Rubaroo Hosts Residential Workshop in Kolkata with Youth Leaders from Across India

Catalyst Alumna Mallika: Restoring Dignity in Leprosy-Affected Communities

Transforming India’s Education Sector – InnovatED National Bootcamp in Kolkata

Impact Over Income: Dr. Tarun Arora on Why Public Policy Is the Career Path of the Future!

South Point High School Kolkata hosts seminar on New Professionals for 21st Century

BCC&I Unveils Thought Paper on Sustainability Practices and Climate Action for West Bengal at the 17th Environment and Energy Conclave

Sustaining Public Health: Sudeshna’s Journey from Sociology to the National Health Mission

Workshop on Entrepreneurship and Innovation as Career Opportunities at BPPIMT Kolkata

Kolkata Embraces Sustainability at BrandEdge 2024

Catalyst alumnus Rohan enabling healthcare organisations to be future ready

National Handloom Day : Catalyst alumna Sanra empowering handloom weavers

MAP Academy and Nalli Silks Fellowships for 2024–25 to Support South Asian Textile Research and Education

Catalyst alumna Shreyashi strengthening conservation of tigers

Careers with menstrual health and hygiene sector in India

Shaping the future of HR

Catalyst alumna MSW graduate Pritha hired by Ernst & Young

Ambedkar University introduces MA programme on public policy and governance

Pursuing Labour Studies in India : Programmes – Placements – Prospects

Manipuri dancer and Catalyst alumna Noel strengthening mental healthcare with Dance Movement Therapy

TISS – Macquarie University introduce dual degree programme in public policy and international relations

Empowering Tomorrow’s PR Leaders: Sarannya’s Journey to Social Impact

M.A. Development at IDS Sussex : Prospects – Placements – Preparation

Silhouette to Social Stock Exchange – The story of MISSING

Careers with Autism Sector in India – Primary Duties and Salaries

Catalyst alumna Meghna to make film on human-crocodile coexistence

CUET PG 2024 : Paper-code wise candidate break-up

Catalyst Alumna Samata hired for Change Communications at Accenture

Mental Healthcare Startup in Kolkata by Catalyst Alumnus Megha

IIT Delhi launches MA in Culture, Society, Thought for 2024 entry

Catalyst alumnus Souma’s co-authored report released by Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal

Doyita’s Journey: A Catalyst for Data Driven Social Impact

CII IWN Unveils Groundbreaking Policy Brief in Kolkata to Boost Women’s Participation in Corporate Sector

From Sociology to Sustainability: Catalyst Alumna Akangsha Unravels the Future of ESG Jobs

Pursuing Development Studies at TISS : A Multifaceted Lens for Tackling Global Challenges

Studying Social Sciences at IIT – Catalyst Alumna Sheersha Strengthening Maternal Health

Catalyst Alumna Kahini Sustaining Urban Transportation

Climate Action Careers – Catalyst Alumni at COP 28

Workshop to Strengthen Social Science Teaching by School Teachers held in Kolkata

Remembering Social Scientist M.S. Swaminathan – Catalyst Alumna Sadaf Shares Her Experience

Catalyst alumna Sromona hired by aluminium giant Vedanta Limited from Masters in Social Work

Celebrating India’s Rich Handloom and Handicrafts Heritage with Catalyst Alumna Nandita Talukdar – Founder of Indiestore

Masters in Urban Management in India: A Relevant Choice for the 21st Century

World Population Day : Career prospects with Masters in Population Studies at IIPS

Work with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJ&E). Salary upto Rs 75000 per month

Music can transform India

National Reading Day : Must Read Books Co-authored-edited by Catalyst Alumna Kusumika

How are businesses worldwide adopting sustainable practices? – Catalyst Alumna Atrayee Das Chaudhuri Simplifies

“It is for these powerless and voiceless people that a medium like journalism exists”- Kanjyik

WHO : COVID -19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)

NITI Aayog Releases Compendium on Best Practices in Social Sector 2023

Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE) 2023 discussed ways of raising profile of country’s innovation and entrepreneurship eco-system

Catalyst alumni Diya hired by United Way from M.A. Development

Ministry of Education invites suggestions on Draft National Curriculum Framework for School Education

Catalyst Learning Services hosts Social Innovators’ Meet in Kolkata

Wheelchair with toileting system gets Rs 1 Cr investment in Shark Tank India Season 2

Call for applications for social science and humanitarian fellowship

Catalyst alumni Shourjya Deb promoted to Senior Researcher at SIPRI

UNION BUDGET 2023

ECONOMIC SURVEY 2022-23: HIGHLIGHTS

Grassroots Innovators conferred Padma Shri for S&T based innovative ways of reviving traditional art and music

TISS Conference’s Outcome Developing a Roadmap for Disability Rights in India

National Institutes for Human Resource Development in the Field of Disability in India

Knowing Prof Shalini Bharat, Vice-Chancellor, TISS and Her Work with HIV Prevention

Catalyst Alumni are scoring big in Mental Healthcare

Low Presence of women in creative decision making of films: Prof Lakshmi Lingam, TISS

TISS to present “Breaking the Screen Ceiling : Gender and Work in Hindi Cinema at IFFI-2022, Goa

Kerala Institute of Local Administration – KILA hosted a workshop on Theme 1 – No Poverty

India jumps 2 spots higher, and now ranks 8th as per Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI, 2023)

From Bachelors in Commerce to PhD in Communication – Catalyst Alumnus Aman Misra

Rewarding Career Pathways in Child Development and Protection
WHO releases first-ever list of health-threatening fungi

Harini Nagendra, Faculty, Azim Premji University elected as a fellow of the Indian National Science Academy

Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (Tele-MANAS) initiative launched on occasion of World Mental Health Day

Where do we come from ? | Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2022 – Svante Pääbo

Remembering Economist Abhijit Sen, strong advocate of public distribution system

Catalyst alumnus Subham (B.E. Mechanical) to pursue DPhil in International Development at University of Oxford

Transgender persons to get holistic health services under Ayushman Bharat- PMJAY

Catalyst alumna Rupsa to pursue PhD in Applied Psychology

Azim Premji University graduate Soumili to transform a drought prone region into a zone of opportunity

Catalyst Alumnus Souma Sekhar Gangopadhyay inducted as a consultant in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India

“I want to work in public health” – Sudeshna on converting Azim Premji University and TISS

Pursuing MSW HRDM at CHRIST University Bangalore | Srijana | Catalyst Alumna Experience

“Solving math was made more fun than I could ever imagine!” – English Literature graduate Auhona

Japanese to TISS HRMLR | The Story of Sumit Ghosh

IIT Madras expanding social science programmes
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ECONOMIC SURVEY 2021-22
Career in Public Policy : Health Policy and Advocacy

Careers in the New Normal : Urban Management, Governance & Planning
Careers in Public Health – Exploring prospects
The Emerging Face of Social Entrepreneurship in India
Mental Well-being : Building resilience in the time of a pandemic
Career in International Affairs : Prospects – Study Abroad Tips
DEVELOPMENT : Some Experiences. Some Reflections.
Jamia Millia Islamia launches e-Prospectus for the academic session 2021-2022, introduces 8 new courses and 4 departments
Combined Social Sector Expenditure by Centre and States as Per Cent of GDP has Increased in 2020-21 Compared to Previous Year
Key Highlights of Economic Survey 2020-21

Career in Social Work

गरम हवा – Garam Hava – Eng Subtitles – Balraj Sahni, Farooq Shaikh

Webinar with Dr. Krishnamurthy V Subramanian

‘Communication is the key to everything’ – Nandita Talukdar

“Consent” by Kusumika Ghosh : Catalyst Alumnus Story
TISS Masters – TISSNET – TISSMAT – PIT-PI Preparation

“Peace cannot be kept by force but only through understanding”

Tribal Problems

Motherhood : Through trials and tribulations
