Mukherjee Fellowship 2026

The Mukherjee Fellowship, launched by the Policy, Politics and Governance Foundation (PPGF) in collaboration with the Nation First Policy Research Centre (NFPRC), is a full-time, one-year program that immerses you in the world of Indian governance, law-making, and political strategy.

I was genuinely impressed when I came across this. You don’t just sit in a classroom—you get to work directly with Members of Parliament, Ministers, and political offices, contributing to real policy documents, campaign ideas, and legislative strategy.

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Fellowship Structure – What You’ll Actually Be Doing

This isn’t your typical lecture-and-exam type fellowship. The structure is split into two parts:

1. Classroom Training (3 Months) – New Delhi

You start off with an in-person module covering everything from parliamentary procedures, law & economics, to how election campaigns are designed and run. It’s intense but super practical—designed to prepare you for the real action that follows.

2. Field Placement (9 Months) – Across India

You will then be placed with M.P.s, ministers or senior state officials. (Policy note writing, research, political communications, or perhaps being on a campaign team during elections.) No two days are the same.

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What You Get (And Why It Matters)

• Stipend: ₹50,000/month for the full 12 months

• Mentorship from real-world policymakers

• Training in strategy, governance, media, and research

• Certificate of Completion + potential recommendation letters

• Career support for roles in public policy, consulting, political analysis, or government advisory

And honestly, more than the perks—it’s the access and exposure that really make this program special.

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important Dates for 2026

Who Can Apply?

You should go for it if:

• You are an Indian citizen who is 25 years of age or younger (you must be born on or after 1 July, 2000)

• You are an undergraduate in your final year or a recent graduate from ANY degree discipline

• You’re passionate about politics, governance, or public policy

• You’re able to commit full-time for 12 months (no part-time work or studies allowed)

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Selection Process – How You Get In

1. Online Application: With your Statement of Purpose and details

2. Written Questionnaire: Testing your take on governance and policy

3. Personal Interview: Conducted remotely with the fellowship team

They’re not just looking for academic brilliance—they want motivated young people who are curious, thoughtful, and eager to learn by doing.

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What You’ll Learn (and Live)

Honestly, this is one of those fellowships that gives back more than it asks. You’ll leave the program with:

• A real understanding of how Indian politics works

• Experience working in policy research, election strategy, and communication

• A strong network of mentors and peers

• Confidence to work in the development sector, public service, or political consulting

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FAQs – Mukherjee Fellowship 2026

• What’s the last date to apply?
→ 22 June 2026

• Who’s eligible?
→ Indian citizens aged 25 or younger, from any academic background

• Is this full-time?
→ Yes, it’s a full-time, immersive commitment

• What kind of work will I do?
→ From policy briefs to speech writing, campaign planning to research—you’ll be in the thick of it

• Do I need prior experience in politics?
→ Not at all. Curiosity, willingness to learn, and dedication are what matter most