My experience with Goonj’s rural exposure program in Banswara was truly eye-opening. The dedication and passion displayed by the team members while working with the local community left me in awe. Witnessing their relentless efforts to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas made me realize the power of communal unity. I am grateful for this experience and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to make a positive impact in society.
‘EXPLORING THE WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES’
Application Open Now
Duration: AUGUST 1, 2025 to JULY 31, 2026
Last date to apply – 22nd JUNE 2025
Duration: AUGUST 1, 2025 to JULY 31, 2026
Last date to apply – 22nd JUNE 2025
About Goonj Setu Fellowship
Step into a high-impact, purpose-driven year with the Goonj Setu Fellowship, celebrating over 25 years of grassroots innovation and social transformation. From August 1, 2025 to July 31, 2026, join a dynamic cohort of changemakers from across India for a journey that blends real-world exposure, deep learning, and leadership development.
This is more than a fellowship — it’s a launchpad for urban youth ready to create tangible change. Immerse yourself in Goonj’s wide-ranging initiatives — from menstrual health, education, and environment to disaster response, rural development, and urban community events.
With field immersion across 27 states and UTs, you’ll dive into diverse geographies and communities, working on self-led projects that match your interests and passions. The curriculum is rooted in experiential learning, and includes skill labs, hands-on training, cross-sectoral exposure, and personalized mentorship.
If you’re a curious, impact-oriented young leader seeking to grow, contribute, and reimagine development from the ground up, this is your call to action.
Milestones at Goonj Setu Fellowship
The Goonj Way:
Deep Dive into the
Goonj Way, Values
and Ethos
Practica:
Getting to know rural India
– Immersion and learning
by doing with grassroots
leaders and communities
Ecosystem Exposure:
Engage with and learn from
development sector leaders
working on innovative ideas
on different issues
Participation & Action:
Instigating positive civic
participation in
development and climate
action
Skill Labs:
Honing skills and dreams
for the future through
workshops, reflections,
peer-to-peer learning, and
proactive action
Discovering the self
through projects:
Finding purpose
through experiential
learning
Selection Process
- Start by filling out the online application form—make sure to reflect on your personal experiences and avoid using AI-generated responses.
- If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for a one-day assessment and panel interview at the nearest Goonj office.
- If selected, you will receive an offer to join the Fellowship, followed by an orientation program to help you integrate into the Goonj ecosystem.
Eligibility
- Age – You must be 21 to 30 years old by July 31, 2025
- Education – You should have graduated by July 31, 2025
- Adept with technology – basic computer knowledge
- Languages known – basic understanding of English / Hindi
Frequently Ask Questions
- Start by filling out the online application form—make sure to reflect on your personal experiences and avoid using AI-generated responses.
- If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for a one-day assessment and panel interview at the nearest Goonj office.
- If selected, you will receive an offer to join the Fellowship, followed by an orientation program to help you integrate into the Goonj ecosystem.
- Fellowship is for 12 months ( August to July ) and a tough one!
- Fellows will be given 20 leaves a year + regular national holidays
- The fellowship stipend will be a fixed amount ranging between Rs 20000 - Rs 22000 per month, depending on the city. Fellows should manage their food and accommodation by themselves.
- City & Field travel allowances will be reimbursed based on actual costs incurred.