Congress Launches 'Dr. Manmohan Singh Fellows' Programme to Nurture Mid-Career Professionals for Politics

Initiative Aims to Build a Modern and Progressive India Through Mentorship and Real-Time Political Training​

New Delhi, April 4 — The Indian National Congress has launched a prestigious new fellowship programme named after former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, aimed at bringing mid-career professionals into the political fold. Titled ‘The Dr. Manmohan Singh Fellows’, the initiative will select 50 professionals annually to be mentored by senior Congress leaders with professional backgrounds.

The programme was announced at a joint press conference by Praveen Chakravarty, Chairman of Professionals’ Congress and Data Analytics, along with K Raju, national coordinator of the SC department, and Pawan Khera, head of AICC's media and publicity department.

A Platform for Professionals with Purpose​

Chakravarty emphasized that the fellowship is not for entry-level aspirants but for those with nearly a decade of professional experience who are passionate about shaping a secular, progressive, and prosperous India.

“These 50 people will be chosen by an eminent panel through a very intense selection process,” said Chakravarty. “They will be mentored by senior leaders in the Congress Party who themselves come from professional backgrounds.”

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The chosen fellows will receive continuous training, participate in live political projects within the party, and be guided closely by senior leaders to ease their transition into public life.

Beyond Internships: A Full-Time Political Commitment​

Describing the fellowship as a “serious programme for serious people,” Chakravarty clarified that this is not a short-term internship.

“This is a full-time commitment for those with absolute conviction in secular progressive politics. It is not time-bound and doesn't end with just a certificate.”

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He expressed hope that future leaders of the Congress Party would emerge from these cohorts, calling it a fitting tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy.

Honouring Dr. Singh’s Vision for Youth and Policy​

Reflecting on global developments and India’s current political discourse, Chakravarty said:

“While the U.S. under President Trump is setting a new economic order, India is caught in divisive debates. We miss a leader like Dr. Singh to guide us.”

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He recalled a personal conversation with Dr. Singh during the Russia-Ukraine crisis, where the former PM had suggested engaging young professionals to address geopolitical and economic challenges.

“Dr. Singh believed in empowering youth to think through complex issues. This fellowship fulfils that vision,” Chakravarty added.

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Senior Leaders to Mentor Fellows​

K Raju highlighted the mentoring framework of the fellowship, stating that selected professionals will be paired with experienced Congress members who have also transitioned from non-political careers.

“We will assess their strengths and create an ecosystem that supports their growth in politics,” Raju said.

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He emphasized the need for domain expertise in modern politics, adding:

“Politics today demands more than legislative presence—it requires understanding intricate policy details. This initiative will strengthen Congress by integrating knowledge-based leadership.”

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Raju concluded with confidence that the fellowship will produce leaders capable of driving social transformation and contributing meaningfully to the party’s decision-making.