The Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) is inviting applications from outstanding young leaders for the Raisina Young Fellows Programme 2027 in New Delhi, India. Through its youth community, PCNS has reserved two fully funded places for eligible candidates to participate in this international programme, which brings together emerging leaders to discuss major political, economic and social challenges.
The programme will take place from 11 to 20 March 2027 and offers participants opportunities to engage with influential policymakers, business leaders, academics and other international stakeholders. It is particularly valuable for professionals seeking to expand their international networks, strengthen their leadership skills and contribute to discussions on global affairs.
Applications must be submitted by 2 November 2026.
Overview of the Raisina Young Fellows Programme 2027
- Programme: Raisina Young Fellows Programme 2027
- Organiser: Policy Center for the New South (PCNS)
- Location: New Delhi, India
- Programme dates: 11–20 March 2027
- Application deadline: 2 November 2026
- Funding: Fully funded for two selected PCNS youth community members
- Eligible age range: 28–35 years
- Working language: English
- Fields: Politics, diplomacy, business, media, civil society and academia
- Official application route: Application form provided by PCNS
About the Programme
The Raisina Young Fellows Programme connects emerging leaders from different countries and professional backgrounds to examine contemporary international issues, with particular attention to Asia. Participants engage directly with senior political figures, business executives and academics, gaining perspectives on global governance, international relations and economic development.
The programme is associated with the Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, co-hosted with the Ministry of External Affairs of India. Participants will be inducted as Raisina Young Fellows at the conference.
After completing the programme, fellows become part of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) alumni network, which includes more than 2,500 former participants in its governance programmes. The network provides opportunities to maintain professional connections with influential individuals, including ministers, chief executive officers and political leaders.
The initiative forms part of a strategic partnership between PCNS, ORF and the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI). This collaboration promotes cross-regional dialogue, professional exchange and shared learning among emerging leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the programme’s stated eligibility requirements:
- Be between 28 and 35 years old.
- Demonstrate outstanding achievements and a proven record of leadership.
- Work in politics, diplomacy, business, media, civil society or academia.
- Be available to participate throughout the entire programme, from 11 to 20 March 2027.
- Demonstrate the ability and readiness to contribute meaningfully to international forums.
- Be proficient in English.
The call specifically reserves two funded places for members of the PCNS youth community. Prospective applicants should therefore confirm their eligibility for this particular nomination opportunity and any additional conditions specified in the application form.
Funding and Benefits
The two selected participants will receive comprehensive financial support for their participation. The package includes:
- Round-trip economy airfare: Travel to and from New Delhi.
- Accommodation: Lodging for the programme.
- Meals: Food during the programme.
- In-country transportation: Local transport associated with participation.
- Fellows’ programme: Access to the programme’s activities and professional engagements.
- International networking: Opportunities to connect with emerging leaders and established figures across politics, business and academia.
- Alumni connections: Entry into the wider Raisina Young Fellows network following participation.
The announcement does not specify a separate cash stipend. Applicants should consult the official application information for any further details about covered expenses and funding conditions.
Why Apply for the Raisina Young Fellows Programme?
This opportunity is suited to established young professionals who want to strengthen their international engagement and contribute to global policy discussions. Participation can help fellows broaden their understanding of geopolitical and geo-economic developments, exchange ideas across regions and build relationships with professionals working in different sectors.
For candidates working in African development, diplomacy, public policy, media, business or civil society, the programme may provide a valuable platform for connecting regional experiences with wider international debates. However, applicants should demonstrate their own leadership achievements and readiness to participate rather than relying solely on their professional titles.
How to Submit a Strong Application
Applicants should complete the official PCNS application form before the deadline. To strengthen an application, candidates should clearly demonstrate their leadership experience, professional achievements and capacity to contribute to international discussions.
Where the application form permits supporting explanations, applicants should highlight examples of initiatives they have led, policy or community challenges they have addressed, and their engagement with international or cross-cultural issues. They should also explain how participation would support their professional contribution to global dialogue.
Candidates should ensure that all information is accurate, their English proficiency is adequately demonstrated, and their availability for the full programme period is confirmed. The announcement does not list additional mandatory documents, so applicants should follow the requirements stated in the official form.
Application Deadline and Selection Notification
The deadline to apply is Monday, 2 November 2026. Only selected applicants will be contacted because of the high volume of applications.
PCNS states that candidates who have not received a response by Monday, 23 November 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful for the 2027 edition.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Interested candidates should visit the official Policy Center for the New South website and open the PCNS Youth Community | Call for Applications: Raisina Young Fellows Programme 2027 announcement to access the application form.
Official source: Policy Center for the New South (PCNS)
Applicants should review the official announcement and application form carefully to confirm all requirements before submitting their applications.
