In 2017, a group of changemakers noticed something troubling. India's development community possessed vast expertise on advancing social change, but that knowledge lived in silos—locked in people's heads or buried within organisations. Critical insights rarely reached those who needed them most. India Development Review was born from this realisation. Founded as a nonprofit with the objective of surfacing ideas and insights so that together we can do more and do right by the millions of Indians we work with and for.
Today, IDR stands as Asia's largest independent media platform advancing knowledge on philanthropy and social impact. The numbers tell a remarkable story: nearly 20 million people reached, over 2000 articles published in five years, with coverage spanning 28 states. But behind these figures lies something more meaningful—a community united by the belief that knowledge has the power to drive change.
IDR's editorial direction remains independent of any funder, nonprofit or partner relationship. This freedom allows them to tackle uncomfortable truths alongside inspiring successes. They write about what has worked but also what has not, showcasing big ideas whilst covering functional knowledge that strengthens programmes and organisations.
The platform's strength lies in its diverse community of contributors. Experts, practitioners, donors, development thinkers, researchers, grassroots workers, and activists all trust IDR to responsibly tell their stories. The team travels to where stories unfold, translates and transcribes when needed, and helps contributors articulate complex work for broader audiences.
IDR publishes at least one article every weekday, with many insights being documented digitally for the first time. Each piece undergoes rigorous editorial scrutiny guided by one question: will this help create a development sector that functions better?
The impact extends beyond IDR's own platform. Two-thirds of IDR articles are republished by mainstream media, reaching readers through 61 mainstream and online channels. Yet accessibility remains paramount—IDR is free to read, will never go behind a paywall, and operates under Creative Commons licensing.
Recognised as one of India's top innovative organisations in 2023, IDR continues expanding its reach. With 53% female readership and 41% aged between 25-34, the platform nurtures the next generation of development leaders whilst serving seasoned practitioners across India's diverse landscape.
