What Outlasts the Founder: The Question of the 10-Year Anniversary

Update (20th Sept): [link]

So here’s a question that came up in something Natasha Joshi and I discussed earlier today. This year, we’ve attended a bunch of 10-year anniversaries of organisations – MASH Project Foundation, Saahas Zero Waste, Buzz Women, Oorvani Foundation, Reap Benefit, Waste Warriors Society, Fields of View, Indus Action, Jhatkaa.org and Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy – that come to mind. I am sure there are more. Was there something special about the 2012-2013-2014 period that birthed many new organisations? Thoughts?

Update 1: Here are some insights from the comments below:

The early 2010s experienced a surge in digital connectivity, particularly in India. The National Telecom Policy 2012 aimed to expand telecommunication services nationwide, complementing the rapid rise in smartphone usage and the digital boom. India passed key legislation during this period, fostering an optimistic atmosphere. Post the 2008 global financial crisis, India saw steady GDP growth amidst global recovery, though political challenges and anti-corruption movements also marked the period. The 2013 Companies Act’s CSR mandate possibly boosted funding optimism for social ventures. Enhanced internet access and fellowship opportunities expanded resources for many, potentially sparking entrepreneurial pursuits. Cultural beliefs, like the Mayan 2012 prophecy, may have influenced societal perspectives, while global environmental and power dynamics discussions added another layer, fueling collective action and initiative-taking.

Update 2: Here are some insights on law and regulation from the comments below:

1. 2013: Criminal Law (Amendment) Act.
2. 2013: Lily Thomas vs. Union of India.
3. 2014: NALSA v. UOI.

Originally written for LinkedIn on 12 September 2023. View original →