Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship 2026-27, The Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship (LNRF) is a year-long grassroots engagement and policy research initiative launched by the Samaira Policy Research Institute. Drawing inspiration from the ideals of Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan, the program is rooted in the principles of participatory democracy and rural reconstruction.
Designed for young scholars, the fellowship provides deep immersion into the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), offering the opportunity to work closely with elected representatives, observe governance systems at the village level, and contribute to community development through applied policy research.
Blending rigorous fieldwork with academic inquiry, the fellowship seeks to cultivate a new generation of policy professionals grounded in the lived realities of rural India.
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: 1st March 2026
Overview for Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship 2026-27
The LNRF seeks to:
Conduct evidence-based research on Panchayati Raj Institutions and rural governance.
Enable field-based policy learning with local bodies and legislators.
Develop actionable frameworks for participatory and inclusive rural development.
Build a network of policy researchers and practitioners grounded in grassroots experience.
Areas of Research for Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship 2026-27
- Panchayat Governance and Decentralization
- Local Finance and Rural Infrastructure
- Social Justice and Gender Inclusion in PRIs
- Climate Change and Rural Livelihoods
- Education, Health, and Local Service Delivery
- Digital Governance and Data for Rural
- Development
- Participatory Engagement Planning and
- Citizen
Fellowship Structure for Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship 2026-27
The Fellowship is structured into three integrated components:
Field Immersion (Primary Component) Fellows are placed in rural areas and attached to Panchayati Raj Institutions, where they:
- Observe and document governance processes
- Work with elected representatives and local officials
- Attend Gram Sabha and Panchayat meetings
- Engage with community members and civil society actors
- Applied Policy Research Each Fellow undertakes structured policy research on themes such as:
- Rural development and livelihoods
- Local governance and decentralisation
- Health, education, nutrition, and sanitation
- Gender, social justice, and inclusion
- Climate resilience and sustainable rural planning
- Research outputs include policy briefs, field reports, and working papers under faculty mentorship.
- Capacity Building & Mentorship Fellows receive continuous academic and professional support through:
- Research methodology workshops
- Policy writing and communication training
- Ethics, leadership, and public service modules
- One-on-one mentorship from SPRI faculty and practitioners
Eligibility Criteria for Lok Nayak Rural Fellowship 2026-27
Educational Qualification: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution in India or abroad. Candidates from all disciplines are eligible. Final-year undergraduate students may apply, provided they submit proof of degree completion before the Fellowship commencement.
Age Criteria: Preferred age range: 21 to 30 years at the time of commencement of the Fellowship. Candidates outside this range may be considered on a case-bycase basis if they demonstrate strong motivation, relevant experience, or exceptional merit.
Citizenship: The Fellowship is open to Indian citizens.. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) may apply subject to, Compliance with applicable fieldwork, residency, and legal requirements Willingness to work in rural India for the full duration.
Language & Communication: Working knowledge of English is required for research, reporting, and training components. Knowledge of Hindi and/or regional languages will be considereda strong advantage for field engagement.
Learn more about the Fellowship Program
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