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.
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.
What You Get (And Why It Matters)
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Stipend: ₹50,000/month for the full 12 months
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Mentorship from real-world policymakers
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Training in strategy, governance, media, and research
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Certificate of Completion + potential recommendation letters
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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.
Key Dates for 2025–26
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 26 May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 22 June 2025 |
| Fellowship Starts | 17 July 2025 |
Who Can Apply?
You should go for it if:
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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
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You’re passionate about politics, governance, or public policy
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You’re able to commit full-time for 12 months (no part-time work or studies allowed)
Selection Process – How You Get In
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Online Application: With your Statement of Purpose and details
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Written Questionnaire: Testing your take on governance and policy
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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.
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:
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A real understanding of how Indian politics works
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Experience working in policy research, election strategy, and communication
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A strong network of mentors and peers
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Confidence to work in the development sector, public service, or political consulting
FAQs – Mukherjee Fellowship 2025
• What’s the last date to apply?
→ 22 June 2025
• 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