A new initiative, Build for Bharat, has been launched in India, offering students the opportunity to directly contribute to public governance through technology. The fellowship, aimed at early-career technologists, focuses on leveraging students’ skills to tackle some of India’s most pressing public challenges while strengthening the country’s digital systems.
With a deadline set for 7th March, the program is designed to provide students with a unique platform to work alongside government departments, where they can engage in high-impact technology projects. These projects, often involving innovative digital solutions, aim to enhance the efficiency of government operations and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens. The fellowship promises hands-on exposure to real-world applications of technology, guiding future technologists through a complex landscape of public service.
The need for such initiatives has become evident as India’s rapid digitalisation continues to evolve. From providing digital access to healthcare services to improving governance through data, the country’s technological landscape has seen an unprecedented transformation in recent years. However, the success of these advancements relies on skilled technologists who understand both the nuances of technology and the intricacies of governance. The Build for Bharat Fellowship seeks to address this gap by training future public-interest technologists who can design, develop, and implement tech solutions in public service.
Fellows will undergo a rigorous orientation program designed to help them navigate the complexities of public service, policy, and the unique challenges that arise when implementing technology in social and governmental frameworks. This immersive learning experience will provide students with insights into how government departments work, offering a critical perspective on the role of technology in public administration.
Moreover, the program connects fellows with top industry experts. Fellows will have access to mentorship through online office hours with leaders in fields such as databases, security, distributed systems, and open-source technology. These experts come from diverse sectors, including top tech companies, academia, and the public sector, offering invaluable guidance to participants as they embark on their projects.
By training the next generation of public-interest technologists, the fellowship program aims to modernise the country’s digital infrastructure while ensuring that technology solutions remain human-centred. As India continues to expand its digital footprint, there is a growing need for professionals who are not only technically skilled but also understand the broader social and governance contexts in which technology operates. The fellowship is designed to nurture such professionals, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s digital governance systems.
Applications for the fellowship are now open, with the deadline fast approaching. Students with a background in technology, whether in software development, design, or systems architecture, are encouraged to apply. The program promises not only to be a valuable learning experience but also an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the country’s technological landscape.
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official form available at this link. With the closing date of 7th March, aspiring technologists are urged to apply soon to seize the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking initiative.
This is not just an internship—it’s a chance for students to actively shape the future of India’s digital governance while working alongside the very departments that form the backbone of the country’s administration. It is a stepping stone for young professionals eager to apply their tech skills for the public good, ensuring that India’s digital transformation remains inclusive, effective, and sustainable for all.
Also published on Medium.
