Congress announces Manmohan Singh Fellows scheme for future politicians

In a bid to build a talent pool and infuse fresh blood into the party, the Congress has announced a mid-career fellowship programme named after late Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh.

Under the Dr Manmohan Singh Fellows Programme, 50 mid-career professionals will be selected each year to contribute to society through politics. 

Announcing the initiative at a press conference in Delhi, head of the Congress's publicity department Pawan Khera said, “Through this initiative, we aim to bring a fresh approach to politics and foster mutual learning. This platform is for professionals who believe in the Constitution of India and the party’s core values. They will have an opportunity to bring their expertise into politics and contribute meaningfully.”

Praveen Chakravarty, chairman of the Professionals’ Congress and head of the party’s data analytics department, emphasised the programme’s significance.

“This is a serious programme for serious individuals with a strong commitment to public service. We hope that the future leadership of the Congress party will emerge from these cohorts of Dr Manmohan Singh fellows. That would be a fitting tribute to the legacy of the former prime minister of India,” Chakravarty said.

K. Raju, a former IAS officer and a key member of the National Advisory Council (NAC) during the Manmohan Singh government, underscored the importance of knowledge in politics.

“Political leaders are not just meant to sit in the assembly or Parliament and pass Bills. They must possess in-depth knowledge of various domains to navigate complex issues. This initiative will go a long way in making the Indian National Congress stand out among other political parties,” said Raju, who has been appointed as one of the programme’s mentors.

Raju, who belongs to the SC community, has recently been appointed as the new Jharkhand in-charge of the Congress party, replacing Ghulam Ahmed Mir. His appointment is seen as part of the party’s broader strategy to integrate experienced professionals into leadership roles.

Manmohan Singh’s contributions to India have been monumental, particularly in shaping the country's economic trajectory. As Union finance minister in 1991, he played a pivotal role in liberalising India's economy, steering it away from a financial crisis and laying the foundation for sustained economic growth.

His tenure as prime minister from 2004-14 witnessed landmark initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Right to Information Act (RTI), and economic policies that strengthened India's global standing.

Within the Congress party, Dr Singh was known as a symbol of integrity, intellect, and good governance. A trusted advisor to the party’s leadership, his policy-driven approach to governance set him apart as a leader committed to the idea of inclusive growth and social justice.

Naming the fellowship after him is a recognition of his legacy and an effort to inspire future leaders to emulate his dedication to public service. With this initiative, the Congress hopes to groom a new generation of leaders who are well-versed in governance and policy-making, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions in India.