Congress Launches ‘Dr. Manmohan Singh Fellows’ Programme to Nurture Future Political Leaders from Professional Backgrounds
In a major initiative aimed at bridging the gap between professional excellence and public service, the Indian National Congress on Friday unveiled a new fellowship programme named after former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Titled ‘The Dr. Manmohan Singh Fellows’, the programme is designed to identify and mentor 50 mid-career professionals each year who are passionate about contributing to a modern, progressive India.
Announcing the fellowship at a press conference, Chairman of the Professionals’ Congress and Data Analytics Department Praveen Chakravarty was joined by K. Raju, national coordinator of the SC Department, and Pawan Khera, head of AICC’s media and publicity division.
Chakravarty explained that the fellowship is not intended for entry-level professionals or political novices. Instead, it will target individuals who have spent approximately a decade in their respective fields and now seek to enter politics with a serious commitment to public service.
“These are people who have already proven themselves in the professional world and are now eager to contribute meaningfully to India’s future. They will undergo a rigorous selection process conducted by a distinguished panel,” Chakravarty said. “Once selected, they will receive guidance from senior Congress leaders who themselves come from strong professional backgrounds.”
Highlighting the challenges faced by non-political professionals entering the political space, Chakravarty noted that the fellowship will offer structured support to ease the transition. “We understand how daunting it can be for someone without a political lineage to adapt to party culture. That’s why this mentorship will focus on smoothing that process,” he added.
The fellowship will be a full-time programme with continuous training, real-time assignments, and project-based involvement within the Congress Party. “This is not an internship or certificate course,” Chakravarty stressed. “It is a long-term, high-intensity programme for individuals who are deeply committed to secular and progressive politics.”
He further expressed hope that this initiative could pave the way for a new generation of Congress leadership. “We want future decision-makers of the party to emerge from among these fellows. That would be the most fitting tribute to Dr. Singh’s vision and legacy.”
Reflecting on the current national and global climate, Chakravarty drew a contrast between India’s internal religious debates and global economic shifts. “While we are preoccupied with Hindu-Muslim laws, the world is changing. Under President Trump, the U.S. imposed severe tariffs affecting countries like India that depend heavily on trade. If mismanaged, this could lead to widespread job losses,” he warned.
“In times like these, we miss a guiding voice like Dr. Manmohan Singh. When global oil prices surged after Russia attacked Ukraine, I asked him how India could shield its economy. In his humble way, he suggested forming a team of young professionals to come up with solutions. That thought inspired this fellowship,” Chakravarty said. “Though Dr. Singh may have stepped back from public life, his vision continues to guide us.”
K. Raju, who will serve as a mentor in the programme, emphasized the role of the party in nurturing the fellows’ political journey. “We will start by understanding the unique strengths these professionals bring. Then, we’ll work toward building an ecosystem within the party to help them grow,” he explained.
Raju added that the fellows will not only learn how to survive and thrive in the unpredictable world of politics but also how to remain focused on societal transformation. “I have no doubt they will emerge as capable, well-informed politicians who can contribute meaningfully to both the party and the country.”
He underlined the evolving nature of political leadership, stating that leaders today must possess domain-specific knowledge and be well-versed in legislative and policy matters. “Politics today is not just about speeches and elections—it demands deep understanding of complex issues. This fellowship can help the Congress stand out from other political parties by fostering informed leadership.”
The Dr. Manmohan Singh Fellows Programme marks a strategic effort by the Congress to integrate professional talent into politics and prepare a new generation of leaders rooted in progressive ideals, policy acumen, and the legacy of one of India’s most respected economists and statesmen.
