India Fellow – 18-Month Social Leadership Program

The India Fellow Program is an 18-month full-time fellowship designed for young individuals committed to social change. Fellows work extensively at grassroots levels across India, engaging with communities and addressing diverse social issues.

The program comprises four main components: working at grassroots, residential training, mentorship, and continuous learning. Each component aims to provide fellows with practical experiences, knowledge enhancement, mentorship support, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The fellowship spans 18 months, starting from 1st August 2024 and concluding on 31st January 2026. It includes periods of working at grassroots, residential training sessions spread over the duration, mentorship interactions, and continuous learning activities.

Fellows spend most of their time living and working in rural or peri-urban areas, collaborating with local organizations dedicated to social impact. This immersion fosters sensitivity, consciousness, and a deeper understanding of social issues in India.

Fellows receive a stipend of INR 22,000 per month in metro cities and INR 18,000 per month elsewhere, covering expenses like accommodation, food, and local commute. Additionally, fellows participate in a collective fundraising effort to support future cohorts of the program.

Applicants must be between 20 to 30 years old, have completed graduation or will do so before the fellowship begins, and be ready for an 18-month full-time commitment. They must also be prepared for 24×7 engagement with the local community and align with the program’s philosophy and values.

Applications are accepted online from 5th April to 20th June 2024. After submitting the application, shortlisted candidates undergo a telephonic conversation and an assessment day, which includes group activities and personal interviews.

No, there is no application fee or upfront cost. The program is funded through collective fundraising efforts by fellows throughout the 18-month duration.

Successful candidates receive an invitation to join the fellowship program. They have the opportunity to deliberate on the offer before accepting or rejecting it.

For further details and to apply, visit the India Fellow website during the application period: India Fellow Website
Here are detailed answers to your questions regarding the India Fellow Program:

The training structure of the fellowship is designed to be flexible and adaptable, promoting openness among fellows. The 8 weeks of residential training are spread over the 18-month duration, divided into four parts: induction, midpoint, travel workshop, and endpoint. Specific details about the agenda and schedule for these trainings will be communicated well in advance to all fellows.

No, fellows do not have the option to select their assignment’s geographical location or thematic area. Assignments are based on various factors including the fellow’s skills, aspirations, and the project requirements. Host organizations also submit preferences but do not have final say in selecting specific fellows. The program emphasizes faith in the matching process and encourages fellows to embrace the fellowship journey first, with the specific assignment being secondary.

Fellows are assigned to projects based on careful consideration of their skills and the project’s needs. Initially, fellows settle in and familiarize themselves with the new environment. They are expected to take proactive initiative in project management, community engagement, and team capacity building. Training is provided to equip fellows with necessary skills for their assignments.

Fellows receive a stipend from the host organization to cover living expenses. The amount varies:
In rural areas: INR 15,000 per month if accommodation is provided; INR 18,000 per month if not.
In metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, etc.: INR 17,000 to 22,000 per month with or without accommodation. The stipend covers accommodation, food, and local transport expenses. Fellows bear the cost of travel to the four in-person trainings. During training, all expenses including accommodation, food, and training materials are covered by the fellowship. Fellows also participate in collective fundraising to support future cohorts, aiming to raise INR 1,00,000 per head.

The matching process involves aligning fellows’ interests and competencies with host organizations’ project needs and cultural fit. Both parties provide preferences, and in some cases, discussions may be held over calls to ensure compatibility. The process is dynamic due to evolving organizational needs and aims to provide equally engaging assignments across various geographical and thematic areas.

Safety is a priority for the fellowship and host organizations, selected based on their commitment to the fellowship’s values. While precautions are taken, fellows are encouraged to take responsibility for their personal safety. The program prepares fellows for immersive community engagement, promoting personal growth alongside professional de

Accommodation during residential training sessions is provided by the fellowship at designated venues. All costs related to training, boarding, and materials are covered. Fellows are required to stay at the training venue for the full duration of each session.

Post-fellowship, fellows are supported to pursue their individual goals, whether continuing in the development sector, starting social ventures, pursuing higher education, or exploring corporate or government roles. The fellowship equips fellows with skills and networks necessary for their chosen paths.

Following induction training, fellows proceed directly to their assigned host organizations. There is no break between training and assignment placement. Fellows are advised to pack essential items and prepare for immediate deployment to field areas.

Fellows are granted holidays as per the host organization’s policies. They are encouraged to align leave requests with scheduled breaks from fellowship training activities. Fellows are responsible for understanding and adhering to organizational rules regarding leaves, reimbursements, and other administrative matters.

Fellows are expected to arrive at the training venue the day before the session begins. Arriving earlier necessitates independent accommodation arrangements. It is mandatory to arrive on time as each moment of training is considered crucial for the fellowship experience.

Fellows should pack modest and versatile clothing suitable for various environmental conditions (heat, rain, cold) encountered during fieldwork. There are no strict dress codes, but practical considerations such as sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate attire are advised.

While not mandatory, having a laptop enhances fellows’ ability to contribute effectively to organizational projects, including planning, reporting, and presentations. Essential items to pack include personal documents, medications, toiletries, and suitable attire for field conditions. Local purchases can supplement household items as needed during the fellowship.