Himachal Pradesh News
Anurag Thakur launches ‘Yuva Changemakers’ fellowship to groom young political leaders in Himachal Pradesh
Former Union Minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur on Friday launched the ‘Yuva Changemakers’ leadership development programme in Dharamsala, aimed at preparing young people in Himachal Pradesh for active roles in politics and governance.
Former Union Minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur on Friday launched the ‘Yuva Changemakers’ leadership development programme in Dharamsala, aimed at preparing young people in Himachal Pradesh for active roles in politics and governance.
The initiative introduces a structured leadership fellowship to encourage youth participation in public life, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to bring one lakh young people from non-political backgrounds into politics and governance.
Launching the programme, Thakur said it would create a clear pathway for young aspirants to enter public service through training, mentorship and field exposure.
“The fellowship is designed to build a new generation of leaders equipped with knowledge of public policy, governance and grassroots engagement,” he said.
He added that the programme would focus on practical skills alongside theoretical learning, emphasising problem-solving, community interaction and policy-oriented thinking.
Fellowship details
• Registration: January 25 to March 23
• Expected applicants: Over 10,000 youths across Himachal
• Selection process: 40% theory, 60% practical evaluation
• Final selection: Top 21 candidates
• Duration: One year
• Stipend: 1.21 lakh per fellow
The selected fellows will work in both rural and urban areas, interacting with residents, identifying local issues and conducting studies to suggest policy improvements. Each fellow will also be supported by around 100 volunteers for fieldwork and outreach.
Thakur said participants will get opportunities to work closely with elected representatives and senior government officials, gaining first-hand experience of administrative processes and decision-making.
He described the fellowship as an effort to develop politically aware, governance-proficient and socially responsible youth leaders, adding that it would channelise the energy of the state’s youth towards constructive nation-building.
Highlighting youth-centric initiatives of the Centre, Thakur said India is among the youngest nations in the world, and several government programmes are focused on leadership, service and skill development.
