Mekala Ranjith Yadav: A Committed Field Investigator & project Manager , Social Change in Telangana

In the evolving landscape of public health and community development, dedicated professionals working at the grassroots level play a transformative role. One such emerging social development professional is Mekala Ranjith Yadav, a passionate Field Investigator and former Project Manager committed to improving community well-being across Telangana.

Born on August 25, 1999, in Gadwal, Telangana, Ranjith’s journey reflects determination, compassion, and a strong commitment to evidence-based social change.

Academic Excellence with a Social Vision

Ranjith holds a Master of Social Work (Community Development) from Palamuru University, graduating in 2022 with an impressive CGPA of 8.85. His academic training equipped him with strong foundations in:

• Community organization

• Rural development

• Social research methodologies

• Project planning and implementation

He also completed a Bachelor of Commerce from M.A.L.D. Government Degree College and earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA), strengthening his analytical and technical skills.

Field Investigator – National Mental Health Survey (NMHS-2)

Currently, Ranjith serves as a Field Investigator under the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS-2) at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bibinagar.

In this crucial role (Nov 2024 – Mar 2026), he contributes to one of India’s most significant public health research initiatives by:

• Conducting large-scale community-based household surveys across 9 districts of Telangana

• Ensuring informed consent and maintaining strict confidentiality standards

• Following ethical research protocols in mental health data collection

• Coordinating with ASHA workers, ANMs, Medical Officers, and village leaders

• Managing district-level field logistics, planning, and documentation

• Mentoring field investigators to maintain quality and compliance

His work directly contributes to strengthening India’s mental health policies and intervention strategies through reliable, grassroots-level data.

Leadership in HIV/AIDS Targeted Interventions

Before joining AIIMS, Ranjith worked as a Project Manager at Mennonite Brethren Development Organization (MBDO) (Dec 2022 – Nov 2023).

This project was supported by Telangana State AIDS Control Society (TGSACS) and National AIDS Control Organization (NACO).

As Project Manager, he:

• Implemented Targeted Intervention (TI) programs for migrant and high-risk communities

• Supervised outreach workers and monitored performance indicators

• Conducted awareness campaigns and health education sessions

• Coordinated with healthcare departments and government officials

• Managed reporting systems and ensured compliance with guidelines

• Achieved project targets within stipulated deadlines

His leadership ensured that vulnerable populations received awareness, prevention services, and essential healthcare support.

Grassroots Training & Community Experience

Ranjith completed 45 days of intensive rural development training as a Field Work Intern at the Rural Development Society (RDS), where he:

• Conducted socio-economic assessments

• Performed field interviews

• Prepared community development plans

• Designed intervention strategies based on field findings

Additionally, he actively participated in:

• Rural health and awareness camps in Telangana

• NSS rural development camps in Gadwal

• Youth empowerment initiatives such as the “My Life, Mere Faisle” social action program

These experiences strengthened his commitment to community empowerment and participatory development.

Administrative & Technical Strength

Before entering full-time social development work, Ranjith worked as a Computer Operator at Vishwam Computers for 3 years and 5 months.

There, he:

• Managed data entry and documentation

• Provided technical and administrative support

• Trained staff in MS Office and computer applications

This experience sharpened his digital literacy, data management, and organizational skills — competencies that now enhance his research and project management roles.

Core Strengths

• Community-based research

• Ethical data collection & documentation

• Project management & reporting

• Team supervision and mentoring

• Stakeholder coordination

• MS Office & digital tools proficiency

• Fluent in Telugu and English

A Vision for Sustainable Social Change

Guided by integrity, empathy, and discipline, Mekala Ranjith Yadav believes in empowering communities through awareness, research, and structured interventions. His work in mental health research and HIV prevention programs reflects a deep understanding of grassroots realities and public health challenges.

From rural villages to district-level program implementation, Ranjith continues to serve as a bridge between communities and policy systems — ensuring that data, development, and dignity go hand in hand.

As he continues his journey in social research and development, he stands as a promising changemaker dedicated to building healthier, informed, and self-reliant communities across Telangana.