The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation has officially announced the Inlaks Fellowship for Social Engagement 2026, a prestigious initiative designed to support young Indian graduates and early to mid-career professionals committed to driving social change, this fellowship empowers individuals to explore alternative career pathways in public life, engage with social issues, and challenge established norms through meaningful field-based or research-driven work. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of ₹25,000 to ₹45,000, depending on their geographical location, for the duration of the fellowship.
This program encourages fellows to critically engage with societal issues, create impact through creative mediums, and contribute actively to public discourse across India. With a strong emphasis on independent exploration, community engagement, and intellectual freedom, the fellowship has become an important opportunity for emerging changemakers across sectors.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Must be an Indian citizen currently residing in India
- Must be born on or after 1 January 1990
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised Indian institution OR
- Must have at least 3 years of relevant work experience
- Applicants enrolled in academic studies or a PhD during the fellowship period are ineligible
The fellowship remains inclusive for graduates from all disciplines, social workers, independent researchers, journalists, artists, activists, and community leaders.
Fellowship Benefits for Selected Candidates
The monthly stipend depends on the location of work and residence:
- ₹45,000 per month – If the fellow works in an X-category city
- ₹35,000 per month – If the fellow works in a Y-category city
- ₹25,000 per month – If the fellow works in a Z-category location
Fellows also receive mentorship support, structured reporting feedback, and opportunities to contribute to wider civic discourse through publications, visual media, or community initiatives.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must upload the following:
- Passport-size photograph
- Proof of age and citizenship (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID)
- Updated Resume/CV
- Work Plan (max 1,000 words) including proposed title, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
- Statement of Purpose (max 1,000 words) answering:
- How the work plan contributes to social change
- How the applicant will contribute to public discourse (through writing, filmmaking, blogging, archiving, theatre, etc.)
- Letter of Endorsement from a Mentor, including:
- Mentor’s experience summary
- Reasons for endorsing the applicant
- Complete contact details
- Confirmation of supervision and willingness to review quarterly/annual reports
These documents collectively demonstrate the applicant’s clarity of vision, feasibility of work, and commitment to community-oriented impact.
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be shortlisted purely on the basis of:
- Fulfilment of the eligibility criteria
- Quality, clarity, and feasibility of the work plan
- Strength of the Statement of Purpose
- Mentor’s endorsement and supervisory commitment
The final selection prioritises individuals passionate about social impact, public engagement, and critical inquiry.
Important Dates – Inlaks Fellowship 2026
- Application Deadline: 31 December 2025
Applicants are encouraged to submit well-prepared documents ahead of the closing date to avoid last-minute errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Who is eligible for the Inlaks Fellowship for Social Engagement 2026? |
| Indian citizens born on or after 1 January 1990 with a bachelor’s degree or 3 years’ experience. |
| What is the monthly stipend? |
| ₹45,000 for X-category, ₹35,000 for Y-category, ₹25,000 for Z-category locations. |
| Are students currently enrolled in studies eligible? |
| No, candidates enrolled in academic programs or PhDs during the fellowship cannot apply. |
| What documents are required? |
| CV, work plan, SOP, proof of age, photograph, and mentor endorsement letter. |
| What kind of work plans are accepted? |
| Projects contributing to social change and public discourse across humanities or social sectors. |
| Is work experience mandatory? |
| Only if the applicant does not hold a bachelor’s degree. |
| Can artistic or media-based projects be submitted? |
| Yes, fellows may use writing, filmmaking, photography, theatre, or other mediums. |
| When is the last date to apply? |
| 31 December 2025. |
The Inlaks Fellowship for Social Engagement 2026 is a transformative opportunity for young Indian changemakers seeking to contribute meaningfully to society through research, community work, or creative expression. With substantial monthly support and a strong emphasis on independent public-oriented work, the fellowship nurtures future leaders committed to shaping India’s civic and social landscape. Applicants should review all requirements carefully and visit the official Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation website for updates. Bookmark this page for continuous reference and application guidance, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
