Certificate Programme in

Public Policy
in Action

The Hindu College, University of Delhi, in collaboration with Transform Rural India, invites applications.

About the
Programme

While policies are often conceptualised and designed in urban hubs, their true impact unfolds at the last mile. To understand public policy in India, one needs to uncover what happens on the ground, bridge theory and practice and appreciate the complex challenges, particularly in India’s most resource-constrained regions.

The Hindu College, University of Delhi, and Transform Rural India are collaborating to offer a unique opportunity to 40 of the brightest minds, to delve deep into the world of public policy and governance. This one-of-a-kind program combines integrated classroom learning with real-time exposure to public policy on-ground, set in the context of India’s most marginalised rural communities.

The Opportunity

An unparalleled learning experience featuring:

150 hours of academic content

Meticulously designed academic content spread across two semesters. Students are guided through every stage of the policy cycle -design, implementation, and evaluation.

An 8-week paid internship

On-ground work with Transform Rural India, where participants collaborate with government bodies at the forefront of India’s development efforts in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Expertise from world-class faculty

Learn from development sector practitioners, senior bureaucrats, and scholar leaders. Innovative reflection-based pedagogy that builds on classroom teachings, case studies, discussions, round table discussions, and field experience.

Eminent Faculty
Members

Vinod Rai Former CAG
⁠⁠Justice (Ms.) Gita Mittal Ex-Chief Justice, J&K High Court
⁠⁠ ⁠Prof. TCA Anant Ex-Member UPSC
⁠⁠Prof Arvind Panagariya Columbia
⁠⁠Ms. Aarti Ahuja Ex-Secretary Labour, Govt. of India

Mentor

Co-ordinators

Prof. B. Venkatesh KumarProfessor, Tata Institute of Social Sciences

Co-ordinators

Prof. Chandrachur Singh Associate Professor, Political Science, Hindu College
Ms. Shayantani Das Assistant Professor, English, Hindu College

Eligibility
Criteria

The program seeks driven and inspired students, eager to bridge the gap between academic theories and real-world challenges, blending intellectual curiosity with a passion for practical impact. Candidates should meet the following eligibility criteria:

1

Should be pursuing an undergraduate degree (4th or 6th semester) in any discipline at Delhi University, as of Jan 25, 2025.

2
Should have an exemplary academic record having successfully passed all papers at the time of application, with a CGPA of at least 6.00 for the 2nd/4th semester.
3
Should be willing to stay and travel across rural India.
4
Should have a keen interest in India’s public policy landscape and the larger social development sector.

The fee structure for the entire program is payable in two installments:

  • For Hindu College students: ₹20,000
  • For students from other colleges: ₹30,000


Application Fee:

  • A one-time, non-refundable application fee of ₹100 will be charged to all applicants.


Fee Waivers:

  • Fee waivers are available on a need basis.

Depending on the number of applicants, there will be a 2-tier selection process.

  • Tier OneMCQ-type objective assessment for all eligible candidates.
  • Tier Two – Shortlisted candidates will go through a psychometric test administered by an independent agency. The scores of which will be weighed with the Statement of Purpose from the original application form itself.

Timeline

January 17, 2025 11:00 PM
January 23, 2025
January 27 to February 2, 2025
December 25, 2024
January 20, 2025
January 27, 2025
February 6, 2025
Applications open
December 25, 2024
Applications Close
January 17 11:00 PM, 2025
MCQ assessment
January 20, 2025
Psychometric test
January 23, 2025
Final List announcement
January 27, 2025
Fee Payment Window
January 27 to February 2, 2025
Programme begins
February 6, 2025

Application deadline has been extended to the 17th of January in response to students' requests

FAQs

What is the deadline for applying?

14 January 2025, 11:59:59 pm

Can applicants from other disciplines (non-public policy or non-social sciences backgrounds) apply?

Yes. We encourage applications from every student with an interest in public policy as a discipline.

Which semester does one need to be enrolled in to pursue the program?

This program has been designed for undergraduate students, that will be in the 4th or the 6th semester as of 25 January 2025.

What is the criterion for CGPA evaluation?

Students enrolled in the 4th semester as of 25 January 2025, are required to submit their CGPA for the 2nd semester, and those enrolled in the 6th semester, the CGPA for their 4th semester.

Will the program be conducted offline or online?

The program is purely offline.

Will the classes clash with my college schedule?

Classes will be held after college hours and before 12 pm on Saturdays.

Will the internship clash with the college schedule?

The internship will take place during the summer break.

What kind of certification or degree will I receive upon completion?

After a year, learners will receive a Certificate in Public Policy in Action.

Can I defer my admission if selected but unable to join this year?

We do not allow deferrals.

Whom can I contact for further questions or technical support during the application process?

Reach out to us at rima@trif.in