INDIA NEEDS ITS BEST MINDS TO SOLVE ITS TOUGHEST CHALLENGES.
ARE YOU READY TO LEAD?
India stands at a turning point.
The challenges we face are complex. But so is our ability to rise to them.
We need bold, thoughtful, and committed leaders who don’t just understand policy but are committed to driving it.
The Policy Pioneers Program by India House is where that journey begins.
Upcoming Webinar: Careers in Public Policy
CAREERS IN PUBLIC POLICY: WHERE TO START?
Confused about how to build a career in public policy? This webinar is designed to give you clarity.
In this session, you will uncover:
• What careers in public policy actually look like across government, think tanks, consulting, and NGOs
• The skills and competencies that matter in today’s policy ecosystem
• Practical pathways to enter and grow in the field
• How to move from academic interest to real-world policy exposure
The session will also briefly explore and introduce details about the Policy Pioneers Program by India House for those considering it as a next step.
Limited Seats | 8th MARCH | 3:00 PM – 4:30 P.M.
WHAT IS THE POLICY PIONEERS PROGRAM?
Policy Pioneers is India House’s flagship policy leadership program, crafted for early and mid-career professionals, scholars, and changemakers who are ready to drive systemic change.
This 4 month blended learning program will equip you with everything you need to create real-world impact policy insight, leadership development, hands-on experience, and a powerful network of experts, mentors, and peers.
Through a blend of live online sessions, in-person engagements, and hands-on learning, the program bridges the gap between policy theory and real-world impact.
The program is offered in 6 specializations: Sustainability, Health, Education, Trade, Technology and Public Systems & Governance. This cohort of summer 2026 will offer Trade, Technology and Public Systems and Governance.
OUR KNOWLEDGE PARTNERS
WHAT SETS POLICY PIONEERS APART?
Application-first Approach
Workshops, live projects, and field visits to build relevant real-world skills, and assignments that promote hands-on learning.
Direct Mentorship
Direct engagement with leading experts, practitioners, and policy leaders for learning and guidance.
Career-Ready Focus
Dedicated sessions on policy careers, networking opportunities, and exposure to career paths within and beyond government.
ELIGIBILITY
The Policy Pioneers Program is crafted for early and mid-career professionals and changemakers who are ready to switch gears and drive change through public policy as a tool.
Whether you are a graduate or post-graduate from any discipline: engineering, humanities, business, or sciences, this is your gateway into the world of governance reform, public leadership, and systemic change.
You don’t need a technical background, only an unshakable drive to make an impact.
Curious about the next steps?
Learn more about the Selection Process.
Know more about the Program!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Policy Skillbuilding
Develop core skills in public policy reading, analysis, data-driven research and communication to navigate complex policy challenges.
Experiential Learning
Engage with real-world policy issues through field visits, simulations, and Hands-On Projects for practical insights.
Tech-Driven Innovation
Understand how emerging technologies can be leveraged to create scalable, data-driven solutions for systemic change.
Leadership Development
Build personal leadership and key skills in negotiation, change management, and social entrepreneurship to lead with impact.
Systemic Understanding
Gain a holistic view of India’s governance structures, institutional dynamics, and policy ecosystems.
Career Advancement
Unlock new pathways in policy, governance, and development through mentorship, networking, and skill enhancement.
Each specialization in the Policy Pioneers Program is structured into five key components
Policy Core
Introduction to foundational concepts of public policy and governance.
Policy Workshops
Hands-on training sessions to build and apply practical public policy skills.
Domain Core
Exploration of specialization-specific themes, key policies, and emerging challenges.
Domain Workshops
Learning through immersive workshops on specialization-specific concepts and themes.
Careers
Career guidance across government, think tanks, civil society, and global organizations.
Trade
Why do trade policies benefit some sectors while leaving others behind? What does it take to design trade strategies that balance growth & national interest? If you wish to explore how trade rules are made, and how they shape India’s economic future, your journey starts here!
Read MoreTechnology
Why does technology scale faster than the rules that govern it and how can policy ensure innovation strengthens security and sovereignty? If you’re ready to decode how technology shape India’s digital future, your journey starts here!
Read MoreGovernance
Why do strong policies often fail in execution? What does it take to create a governance model that delivers? If you are ready to decode and reimagine the machinery of governance and public systems for a stronger India, your journey starts here!
Read MorePOLICY PIONEERS PROGRAM: FACULTY
Erik Solheim
Former Executive Director, UN Environment Programme
Ankit Todi
Chief Sustainability Officer
Mahindra Group
Dr. Dinesh Arora
Principal Health Specialist,Asian Development Bank
Dr. Sudha Chandrashekar
Senior Consultant
The World Bank
Prof. Satish Y. Deodhar
Dean (Faculty)
IIM, Ahmedabad
Dr. Harsh Parikh
Asst. Professor
Yale University
See More
Check out the complete list of faculty of the program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the Policy Pioneers Program for?
This program is for early and mid-career professionals, scholars and changemakers who want to use public policy as a tool to drive large scale impact. If you are a graduate from any discipline—engineering, humanities, business, or sciences—from an Indian or international university and if you are passionate about making a difference, this program is for you.
What makes this program different?
At India House, we combine deep learning with real-world action. You will:
- Work on live projects with real policy challenges
- Be mentored by experts, practitioners and thought leaders
- Learn through workshops, case studies, and peer discussions
- Get your work published on India House platforms
- Join a growing network of policy leaders and social innovators
How many hours will I have to dedicate to this program? Will it fit into my busy schedule?
The program requires a weekly commitment of 12–15 hours, including:
- Live sessions: ~3–4 hours
- Hands-on projects: ~4–6 hours
- Pre- and post-session work: ~3-4 hours
Designed for working professionals, the program is delivered through bite-sized modules, live projects, and accomodative schedules. While rigorous, it is equally enriching and rewarding.
How long is the program?
It runs for four months in a hybrid format, with live online sessions, field visits, and two in-person weekends.
Can I apply without a background in public policy?
Absolutely! Whether you’re new to policy or a seasoned professional, the program caters to all experience levels. We will teach you the basics and help you build advanced skills in policy thinking, writing, and research.
What is the structure of the program?
The program includes:
- Expert sessions
- Real-world assignments
- Mentorship meetings
- Team-based live projects
Each participant gets a personal mentor and editorial support.
How do live projects work?
Live Hands on Projects (HoPs) are an opportunity to solve real-world policy challenges. You will work in small teams to tackle real policy issues with real stakeholders—like government agencies, think tanks, or non-profits—under expert guidance.
It is where learning meets action.
How does the program prepare me for a policy career?
With 2 career-focused sessions, the program offers insights and guidance into opportunities across the policy sector. You will also refine analytical and communication skills, build a professional network, and gain practical tools that are required to thrive in the policy space.
Are the in-person weekends mandatory?
Yes, these are mandatory. These weekends are a great chance to meet your peers, join hands-on workshops, and connect with mentors in person. They will be held in Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore.
How will I be assessed during the program?
You will be assessed on:
- Your team’s Hands on Project (HoP)
- Participation in sessions and group discussions
- Pre-work and Post-work
- Attendance
The Policy Pioneers Program is equivalent to a 12-credit course but does not count toward a university degree.
When do the applications open each year?
Applications opened in the second week of January. Follow us on social media or check our Policy Pioneers Program page to stay updated.
How can I stay updated?
Can non-Indians apply for the program?
Yes, the program is open to all nationalities. However, non-Indian passport holders may not be able to join certain field visits as we will not be able to provide sponsored visa. In-person weekends require travel within India.
Are travel costs covered?
No. Travel and accommodation costs for the in-person weekends must be borne by the participant.
What happens after the program ends?
Alumni of the Policy Pioneers Programme will continue to stay connected with India House through the Policy Pioneers Alumni Network. Many will go on to work in think tanks, policy consultancies, journalism, academia, or government. We also support our alumni with references, opportunities, and continued mentorship.
How many people are selected for the program?
Each cohort will have 25 participants per specialization. We keep it small to ensure focused mentoring and strong peer learning.
Can I do this program while working or studying full time?
Yes, but the program is intensive. You will need to manage your time well and commit to the 4-month journey.
Can I get financial assistance for the program?
Yes. Needs-cum-merit based scholarships are available for selected candidates and can cover up to 75% of the fee. To know more, click here.
What is the refund policy if I have to drop out of the program?
Our refund policy
-
- Inform us 3+ weeks before the program begins: 100% refund
- 2 weeks before the program begins: 60% refund
- Less than 2 week before the program begins: No refund
It is an opportunity to learn and contribute to India's policy landscape.
Become a Policy Pioneer!