The India Foundation has announced an extension of the application deadline for the Young Thinkers Meet 2026, moving the last date from April 30, 2026, to May 10, 2026. This change provides additional time for interested candidates to submit their applications for the 15th edition of this flagship program, scheduled to take place on July 18-19, 2026, in Uttarakhand.
About the Young Thinkers Meet
Since its inception in 2012, the Young Thinkers Meet has been a key initiative of the India Foundation, a New Delhi-based think tank. The program brings together young participants under the age of 35 from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including academia, journalism, science, development work, corporate sectors, social and political activism, and international universities. The aim is to engage in policy-oriented dialogue on national and global issues.
Eligibility and Selection Process
Applicants must be under 35 years of age and should demonstrate a keen interest in India's history, polity, foreign affairs, governance, and development issues. Those who have participated in three previous editions are not eligible. The selection process involves an initial application screening, followed by virtual interviews scheduled for May 2026. Final selections will be communicated by the end of May 2026.
The 2026 edition will feature structured discussions, including policy-focused debates, brainstorming exercises, and thematic exchanges across multiple disciplines. Participants are expected to submit a write-up based on the discussions, which may be considered for inclusion in a post-event publication.
Alumni Network and Impact
The initiative has developed a robust alumni network of over 300 participants who continue to engage in public discourse and related activities. The program facilitates structured interaction among participants through panel discussions, group deliberations, and thematic exchanges aimed at broadening understanding of policy and public affairs within a national and global context.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online through the official link provided by India Foundation. The extended deadline ensures that more applicants have the opportunity to be part of this prestigious program. For further details, candidates are advised to visit the official website.
