Youth IGF India Fellowship – 2026
About the Fellowship
1. What is Youth IGF India?
Youth IGF is a platform created by young people to involve youth in thought leadership in Internet governance. The idea is to encourage and empower them to engage in technological developments and public policy discussions. We bring together decision-makers, digital leaders, and inspiring youth to amplify the voice of the youth in building the future of the internet.
2. What is the Youth IGF India Fellowship?
The Youth IGF India Fellowship is a structured mentorship programme designed for young people interested in Internet Governance and related technology and public policy issues. Through expert-led sessions, collaborative discussions, and guided research, the fellowship aims to build participants’ understanding of Internet Governance while encouraging meaningful engagement with the broader ecosystem.
3. Why should I apply for the Fellowship?
The Fellowship is designed to provide targeted mentorship to individuals interested in, or with experience working across, different aspects of Internet Governance, such as data, trust, inclusion, and the environment. It is an opportunity to explore these issues through expert guidance, collaborative learning, and their real-world implications.
4. What are the benefits of participating in this Fellowship?
- Opportunity to interact and collaborate with thought leaders and IG domain experts from the technology and policy space.
- Opportunity for peer networking .
- After the successful completion of the Fellowship program within the deadline, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
- Depending on your interest and eligibility, you could win an opportunity to work with national and international stakeholders who are actively involved in contributing to Internet Governance and related spaces.
- Be a part of the Youth IGF India fellow’s community.
- Opportunity to publish your article on our website post successful completion of your Fellowship.
Eligibility & Applications
5. Who can apply for the Fellowship?
The Fellowship is open to Indian nationals residing in India who meet the prescribed age criteria and demonstrate an interest in Internet Governance. Please refer to the Eligibility section on the Fellowship page for the complete eligibility requirements.
6. Can I apply if I am new to Internet Governance?
Absolutely. The Fellowship welcomes applicants at different stages of their Internet Governance journey. Whether you are exploring the field for the first time or already have some experience, we encourage you to apply if you are genuinely interested in learning and contributing. Curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to engage are just as important as prior experience.
7. Can students and working professionals both apply?
Yes. The Fellowship welcomes applications from students as well as working professionals. As long as you are able to actively participate throughout the programme and meet the Fellowship requirements, you are encouraged to apply.
8. Is there any application fee?
No. There is no application fee for applying to the Youth IGF India Fellowship.
Fellowship Structure
9. What is the exact duration of the Fellowship?
The Fellowship will run for approximately three (3) months from the commencement of the programme.
10. What will my fellowship/work week look like?
You can expect to dedicate approximately 4-5 hours each week to the Fellowship. This will include interactive sessions, collaborative discussions, mentor interactions, and follow-up activities. Active participation throughout the programme is encouraged to help you make the most of the learning experience.
11. Is the Fellowship conducted online or offline?
The Fellowship follows a hybrid format. Most mentorship sessions and discussions will be conducted online, while selected activities, including participation in the Youth IGF India Annual Forum, are planned to take place in person.
12. Is attendance during the Fellowship important?
Yes. Active participation is an essential part of the Fellowship experience. Fellows are expected to attend scheduled sessions, contribute to discussions, complete the assigned activities and deliverables, and remain engaged throughout the programme. Successful completion of these requirements is necessary to receive a Fellowship Completion Certificate.
Annual Forum & Travel Support
13. Can I attend the Annual Forum online?
We strongly encourage every fellow to participate in the Youth IGF India Annual Forum in person, as it provides valuable opportunities to engage with speakers, mentors, and fellow participants. However, the forum is planned in a hybrid format, allowing participants to contribute online where applicable.
14. Will accommodation and travel support be provided during the Annual Forum?
A limited number of fellows may be considered for accommodation and partial travel support to attend the Youth IGF India Annual Forum at IIT Bombay, subject to the Fellowship guidelines and the availability of funding. The amount reimbursed as part of the travel support will be determined on a case-by-case basis, with an upper cap of INR 10,000. Accommodation for fellows receiving travel support will be arranged by Youth IGF India. Meals during the official programme will be provided to all participants.
**Local fellows from Mumbai will be selected through a separate local process after ascertaining the number of seats available. Accommodation may be provided on a case-by-case basis; however, travel support will not be provided for local fellows.
15. I want to stay for a day or two after the event. Is there an option for me to extend my stay?
You are welcome to extend your stay by making your own accommodation arrangements. Any additional expenses beyond the official Fellowship schedule will need to be borne by the participant.
16. I currently live in the city where the Annual Forum will be held. Will I receive local travel support?
Information regarding local travel support, if applicable, will be communicated to the selected fellows along with the detailed travel guidelines before the Annual Forum.
Financial Support
17. Will there be some sort of monetary benefit associated with the Fellowship programme? Is there a provision for a stipend if I get selected?
No. The Fellowship does not provide a stipend or any other monetary benefit. Any travel or accommodation support, where applicable, will be communicated separately.
18. Will I get reimbursement for internet or data charges during the Fellowship?
No. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide reimbursement for internet or data expenses incurred during the Fellowship.