2026 Embark India Development Fellowship Cohort 2 Open Call, The National Fellowship provides young professionals with an opportunity to contribute directly to India’s development agenda by working alongside key government institutions, departments, and public agencies. Fellows will be involved in supporting development programmes, undertaking research based on reliable evidence, and working with policymakers and other stakeholders to develop practical and innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

Inspired by the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the programme combines comprehensive training in development theory, public policy, and governance with expert mentorship and hands-on field experience. Through these engagements, fellows will build the knowledge, professional skills, and practical understanding needed to address real-world development issues and contribute to informed, research-based policymaking.

If you’re interested in this prestigious fellowship program, we encourage you to read the article carefully and follow the application guidelines closely. Make sure to review all eligibility criteria and submit your application within the specified timeline.

Last Date of Application: 5^th November 2026

Fellowship Objectives for 2026 Embark India Development Fellowship Cohort 2 Open Call

The National Fellowship is designed to bring young professionals into the development policy and governance process while strengthening their ability to contribute to India’s long-term development goals. Its key objectives include:

• Encouraging Youth Participation: Create opportunities for young people to actively participate in shaping national development policies and governance initiatives.
• Developing Future Leaders: Equip emerging professionals with the leadership skills and practical knowledge needed to understand public institutions and engage effectively with government systems.
• Connecting Policy with Ground Realities: Encourage fellows to undertake field-based research, interact with relevant stakeholders, and develop policy approaches that reflect actual community needs.
• Supporting Evidence-Based Policymaking: Produce credible research, practical recommendations, and innovative ideas that can help government institutions improve programmes and make informed decisions.

Thematic Focus Areas for 2026 Embark India Development Fellowship Cohort 2 Open Call

The fellowship will support work across several development priorities, with an emphasis on creating practical solutions to India’s policy and governance challenges. The major areas of focus include:

1. Road Safety and Human-Centred Mobility: Promoting safer transport systems and mobility solutions that address the needs of people.
2. Electric and Low-Carbon Mobility: Encouraging cleaner transportation alternatives and reducing emissions from the mobility sector.
3. Circular Economy and Sustainable Materials: Advancing responsible resource use, recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable material practices.
4. Climate Intelligence and Energy Resilience: Supporting climate-informed planning and strengthening the reliability and sustainability of energy systems.
5. Environment, Sustainability and Inclusive Development: Addressing issues such as afforestation, waste management, green skills and employment, water and sanitation, disability inclusion, evidence and data for sustainable development, and environmental safety.
6. Urban and Rural Public Policy: Exploring policy solutions that respond to development needs in cities, towns, and rural communities.

Cross-Cutting Priority: Sustainability will be integrated into all thematic areas, ensuring that fellows consider long-term environmental and social outcomes while developing policy recommendations.

Fellowship Structure and Timeline (September 2026 – December 2027)

The fellowship will run for approximately 17 months, combining outreach, training, professional placements, mentorship, and opportunities to present research and policy recommendations.

Eligibility Criteria for 2026 Embark India Development Fellowship Cohort 2 Open Call

The fellowship is intended for motivated Indian citizens who want to contribute to public policy, governance, and national development. Applicants can apply through one of three professional pathways, depending on their age, qualifications, and work experience.

1. Aspiring Governance Professional – Fresh Postgraduates and Recent Alumni (23–25 Years)

This category is intended for young postgraduate students and recent graduates who are beginning their careers and want to build a future in public policy, governance, and development.

Applicants under this category should:

• Be between 23 and 25 years of age.
• Have a postgraduate qualification or be a recent postgraduate alumnus.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in contributing to India’s development priorities.
• Have a credible record of internships, academic research, or project-based work. Although previous full-time professional experience is not compulsory, a strong portfolio in these areas is required.
• Have prior fellowship experience, which may strengthen their application and provide an additional advantage.

2. Social Sector Catalyst – Experienced Social Sector Professionals (26–35 Years)

This pathway is designed for professionals who have practical experience working with communities and addressing social and development challenges. It offers an opportunity to bring their field-level understanding into government institutions and contribute to policy development.

Applicants must:

• Be between 26 and 35 years of age.
• Have at least three years of professional experience in the social sector.
• Demonstrate experience working with non-profit organisations, social enterprises, or development initiatives.
• Possess a sound understanding of grassroots challenges and a strong interest in influencing public policy and governance.

3. Corporate Change Agent – Corporate Professionals Transitioning to the Public Sector (26–35 Years)

This category targets experienced corporate professionals who want to apply their business, management, and analytical expertise to address public development challenges.

Applicants must:

• Be between 26 and 35 years of age.
• Have a minimum of five years of professional experience in the corporate sector.
• Bring relevant experience in strategic planning, management, analysis, or related professional areas.
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in transitioning their skills and experience towards public policy, governance, and nation-building.

How to apply?

To kickstart your application fill in the form link given below

<<<Apply Now>>>

Learn more about the Fellowship Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the National Fellowship programme?

The National Fellowship is a professional development initiative designed to engage young professionals in India’s development policy and governance processes. Fellows work with public institutions, contribute to research, support development initiatives, and help develop evidence-based policy solutions.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the National Fellowship?

Indian citizens aged 23–35 years can apply through one of three categories: Aspiring Governance Professionals (23–25 years), Social Sector Catalysts (26–35 years), and Corporate Change Agents (26–35 years). Each category has specific educational and professional experience requirements.

3. How many fellows will be selected for the programme?

A total of 25 fellows will be selected for the fellowship following the application and assessment process scheduled for September–December 2026.

4. What are the major thematic areas covered under the fellowship?

The programme focuses on road safety, human-centric mobility, electric and low-carbon transportation, circular economy, climate intelligence, energy resilience, environmental sustainability, inclusive development, and urban and rural public policy.

5. What is the duration and structure of the National Fellowship?

The fellowship will run from September 2026 to December 2027. It includes virtual policy bootcamps, residential training, institutional placements, structured mentorship, and a concluding National Conclave featuring fellows’ final presentations and certification.

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