Applications Open for the Ahimsa Fellowship 2025: Join India's Premier Animal Protection Leadership Program

Omran Aburayya
May 7
2 min read

If you're passionate about animal welfare and aspire to drive systemic change in India, the Ahimsa Fellowship 2025 offers a unique opportunity to turn your commitment into impactful action. As India's first full-time, immersive program dedicated to animal protection advocacy, the fellowship equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to become effective leaders in the field.

📝Ahimsa Fellowship Summary

Location: India (work from your own district; access to the state capital is ideal)
Host Institution: People For Animals Public Policy Foundation, supported by organizations like India Animal Fund, Kaivalya Education Foundation, Miranda House (University of Delhi), and NALSAR University of Law
Fellowship Type: Fellowship (non-academic)
Target Group: Indian citizens aged 21–39 with a bachelor's degree
Fields of Focus: Animal protection, law, policy advocacy, public administration
Funding: Monthly stipend (₹10,000 for the first 2 months; ₹20,000 thereafter), travel and accommodation for residential sessions, potential reimbursement for additional expenses
Duration: 8 months (September 1, 2025 – April 2026)
Application Deadline: June 29, 2025
Eligibility: Indian citizens aged 21–39 with a bachelor's degree in any discipline

📚 Fellowship Overview

The Ahimsa Fellowship aims to create a network of skilled animal protection leaders capable of working closely with state governments and district administrations to enforce animal welfare laws in India. Fellows receive intensive training in legal frameworks, policy advocacy, and grassroots activism, preparing them to address systemic issues affecting animal welfare.

The program includes:

Legal and Policy Training: Understanding India's animal protection laws and policies.
Advocacy Skills: Developing strategies to influence public policy and opinion.
Fieldwork: Engaging with communities, law enforcement, and government bodies.
Mentorship: Guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
Networking: Connecting with a national network of animal protection organizations and previous fellows.

🎁 Fellowship Benefits

Stipend: ₹10,000 per month for the first two months; ₹20,000 per month thereafter.
Covered Expenses: Travel and accommodation for residential contact classes; potential reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses.
Professional Development: Access to workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities.
Career Support: Assistance with placements in animal protection and advocacy organizations post-fellowship.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Be Indian citizens aged between 21 and 39 years as of December 31, 2025.
Hold a bachelor's degree in any discipline.
Possess strong communication skills in English; proficiency in a regional language is desirable.
Be available to commit full-time to the 8-month fellowship program.

📝 Application Procedure

Registration: Sign up and create an account on the Ahimsa Fellowship portal.
Application Form: Complete all five sections of the application form, including personal information, and submit it by locking the form.
Selection Process:
- Stage 1: Evaluation of the submitted application form.
- Stage 2: Virtual personal interview for shortlisted candidates.
- Stage 3: Online assessment for candidates who clear the interview.
- Stage 4: Final panel interview for candidates who perform well in the assessment.