Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 5.0
Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 5.0 | An Online National Winter & Spring School Program | A Five-Month Online Immersive Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Certificate Fellowship | January 2025–May 2025 | IMPRI #WebPolicyLearning
IMPRI Impact and Policy Research Institute, New Delhi, invites you to #WebPolicyLearning
An Online National Winter & Spring School Program
A Five-Month Online Immersive Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Certificate Training Fellowship
Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 5.0
Details of the #WebPolicyLearning:
Dates: Jan (18, 25) Feb (1, 8, 22) Mar (1, 15, 29) Apr (12, 26) & May (3, 24, 31), 2025
Classes on Ten Selected Saturday Evenings & Research Essay Submission
Time: 3 – 5 p.m. IST
Platform: Zoom & Participatory Action Research Qualitative Fieldwork
INAUGURAL SESSION VIDEO
Live: https://youtube.com/live/8DfruLAZJ7A
HQ Video: https://youtu.be/QbTtSyfsomw
Fellows PPT-
Live: https://youtube.com/live/kA-WC9lCxUQ
Course Fee: Professionals: INR 30000 | Students: INR 24000 (inclusive of GST)
Early Bird Discounted Fee (till Dec 18): Professionals: INR 22000 | Students: INR 16000
Special 20 percent discount for IMPRI Alumni. Bulk Discounts can be availed for groups of more than 5 participants.
Key Highlights: Qualitative Research Methods; Fieldwork Design; Research Tool Creation (Interviews, Focus Group Discussions; Key Informant Interviews); Stakeholder Mapping; Career Prospects; Publication Opportunity; Limited Scholarships Available
Registration Form: https://forms.gle/SkxyuoAsAmNbEc5c9
Payment Link: https://pages.razorpay.com/impricoursefee
Alternatively, can use any payment method from here:
https://www.impriindia.com/payment-details/
Program seats: 30
Merit-cum-scholarship seats: 7– Selected candidates will be granted the opportunity to join this fellowship at a nominal token fee of INR 5000.
Partial scholarship seats: 7– Selected candidates will receive a discount of up to 50% on the course fee.
To apply for these scholarships, please complete the registration form provided below. Selected candidates will be notified via email.
Registration form link (scholarship): https://forms.gle/QrVvYLtZBRQLV9NT9
Last Date to apply for the scholarship: Dec 31st, 2024
Selected candidates will be notified via email. For queries, write to: learningatimpri@gmail.com
About
IMPRI Impact and Policy Research Institute, New Delhi, is excited to announce the launch of Cohort 5 of the “Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship.” Building on the achievements of previous cohorts, this program invites motivated individuals with a keen interest in public policy, research, and law to embark on a learning journey aimed at shaping their expertise in action research and fieldwork.
This fellowship offers an in-depth, hands-on approach to understanding public policy challenges through qualitative participatory action research. Participants will engage in expert-led sessions that combine theory with practical application. Workshops, networking forums, and group projects will equip participants with the tools needed to navigate complex policy environments and address real-world issues. Cohort 5 encourages active engagement, fostering collaboration with peers and mentors to explore diverse perspectives and develop evidence-based solutions.
The program curriculum covers essential components such as Qualitative Research Methods, Fieldwork Design, Research Tool Creation (Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, Key Informant Interviews), and Stakeholder Mapping. Participants will gain practical experience in tool testing, fieldwork execution, and reporting. Additionally, the fellowship places a strong emphasis on enhancing research writing and critical thinking skills. Participants are expected to conduct independent fieldwork in their respective areas, submitting detailed reports that reflect their findings and analyses.
By the end of this fellowship, participants will be well-versed in the intricacies of policy-driven research, strategic networking, and impactful implementation. This program not only enhances individual skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of how to effect positive social change through well-informed public policies.
Seats are limited, and selection is based on a competitive application process. Secure your place in Cohort 5 and take the next step in your public policy and research career.
Previous Cohorts:
Cohort 1: Law and Public Policy Action Research Fieldwork Program | July-August 2023 | IMPRI #WebPolicyLearning
Cohort 1 Fellows List and their Research Topics: https://www.impriindia.com/insights/participant-topic-lppyf-action-research-fieldwork/
Cohort 2: Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 2.0
Cohort 2 Fellows List and their Research Topics: https://www.impriindia.com/insights/fellows-profile-public-policy-qualitative-participatory-action-research-fieldwork-cohort-2/
Cohort 3: https://www.impriindia.com/event/public-policy-action-research-fieldwork-fellowship-cohort-3/
Cohort 4: https://www.impriindia.com/event/public-policy-action-research-fieldwork-fellowship-cohort-4/
For Whom
This program is intended for Public Policy Enthusiasts, Early Career Professionals, Research Scholars, Civil Society Activists, Social Entrepreneurs, Administrators in Public and Private Sectors, Postgraduate and Undergraduate Students.
Benefits
- Learn from globally and nationally renowned thematic experts and practitioners.
- Gain from first-hand training on Qualitative Research Methods, Tool Preparation and Testing, Stakeholder Mapping, Fieldwork, Research Writing and Reporting.
- Receive a specially-designed course outline and reading list from the experts.
- Get access to session videos for 15 days. We promote flexible learning at your pace and place, and strict attendance is not a mandatory criterion.
- Participants can take the course without hampering their work life. Each participant will be placed under a supervisor who is a senior faculty or fellow for continuous guidance and knowledge.
- An E-Certificate of Completion of the Fellowship on successfully completing the program.
- An Opportunity to publish your report on the IMPRI Insights Blog, which features articles from eminent people from around the globe.
- The submitted reports will be compiled into a comprehensive edited book for our upcoming publication with ISBN.
Program Details & Schedule
This program offers participants the unique opportunity to delve into diverse topics. Participants can choose topics from a varied area of international/national/local human rights, laws and policies, foreign policies such as human rights, constitutional laws, foreign policies, marginalised communities’ rights, gender justice, environmental rights, disability rights, or any other such policy and law related issue.
Topics with a focus on policy and schemes are encouraged. Some suggested thematic areas may include, but are not limited to:
● Digital Divide: Challenges and Responses by State Governments
● Budgeting by the Local Self Government Bodies for Disaster Management
● Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure in Public and Private Health Care Services
● Public-Private Partnerships in the Health System
● Implementation of the PCPNDT Act in Urban India
● Child Labour in the Post-Pandemic Period
● Evaluation of Skill India Mission
● Challenges Faced by Start-Ups
● Challenges Faced by Women Workers in the Coal Mining Industry: A Case Study of Dhanbad Coal Mines
● Curbing Plastic Pollution in the City with a special reference to Urban Commons and Monsoon Season: A Case Study of Sector 3 Neighbourhood in Navi Mumbai
● A Status of Pension Provisioning for the Elderly in Slum and Informal Neighborhoods with a Special Focus on Access, Adequacy and Emerging Needs: A Case Study of Shrinagar Colony in Chennai
● Understanding Gender-based Violence in the Context of Dowry-related Cases with a Special Focus on Remedies: A Case Study of Dehradun, Uttarakhand
● Assessing the Impact of Ujjwala Yojana and Improvements in Clean Fuel for Household Cooking: A Case Study of Siliguri
● Opportunities and Challenges Towards Access to Finance for Self-Employment with Special Reference to PM Mudra Yojana: A Case Study of Bengaluru
● Feminist Qualitative Action Research
Program Highlights
Month 1 : Orientation, Qualitative Research Methods class, Research Tools preparation & Testing, Stakeholder Mapping
Month 2: Pilot & Fieldwork, Research Writing & Reporting Class
Month 3: Fieldwork & Reporting
Month 4: Reporting, Analysis & Report Submission
Report Review & Completion
1. Coordinated Learning and Guidance: To ensure a meaningful and fruitful research experience, each participant will be placed under the guidance of dedicated senior faculties and fellows who will be their mentors. Our mentors are seasoned researchers and experts in their respective fields, ready to offer unwavering support and constructive feedback. They will guide you in developing a deeper understanding of your chosen research topic and refining your research objectives. During the initial week, various research aspects will be discussed through lectures, ensuring participants have a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies. Topics will be finalized, providing you with ample time to embark on your research journey.
2.Focus on Interaction and Critical Reflection: Our Qualitative Action Research Program will be conducted through interactive Zoom meetings. Through these sessions, participants will have the unique opportunity to engage in lively discussions, share ideas, clear doubts, seek guidance and refine their research objectives with experts. Throughout the program, the emphasis will be on research work, interaction classes, and engagement with mentors. With 2-3 lectures each week, you will have the opportunity to delve deep into topics with experts including bureaucrats, activists, advocates, and others who have a proven track record of impactful work at the ground level.
3.Fieldwork and Publication Opportunities: To enhance practical learning, participants will engage in a fieldwork experience as a compulsory parameter of evaluation. IMPRI will provide a letter of support to participants for conducting their fieldwork, further strengthening their research skills and understanding. The research team at IMPRI will support participants throughout the program.
In addition, selected participants will be guided in getting their reports published on IMPRI Insights and other renowned newspapers, magazines, and journals. Participants will get a chance to publish their reports at IMPRI’s edited book with ISBN. Each submitted report will be evaluated for quality and checked for plagiarism; therefore, participants are required to produce an original report. The fieldwork at the end of the program will be a compulsory parameter of evaluation.
Please note:
- Participants will also have to take pictures, make small video clips of their field research, and share them with the IMPRI team.
- The participants will conduct fieldwork at their own expense. The fee does not cover the fieldwork expenses, it covers administration, assistance and supervisor’s guidance.
- The fee is non-refundable.
Seize this opportunity to contribute to research and make a lasting impact. Enroll today and be part of the Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship!
Program Experts

Chair & Course Director
Chair: Prof Vibhuti Patel, Visiting Distinguished Professor, IMPRI
Session Experts:
Prof Mukul Asher, Visiting Distinguished Professor, IMPRI; Former Professor, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy,
National University of Singapore (NUS)
Dr Padma Deosthali, Senior Director, International Center for Research on Women, ICRW, Asia
Dr Amar Jesani, Independent Researcher and Teacher (Bioethics and Public Health); Editor, Indian Journal of Medical Ethics
Dr Purnima Chauhan, IAS (Retd), Former Secretary, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh & Director Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration (HIPA)
Prof N. Manimekalai, Director and Head, Department of Women’s Studies, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirapalli
Prof Gummadi Sridevi, Professor, School of Economics, University of Hyderabad; Visiting Professor, IMPRI
Prof Utpal K De, Professor and Former Head, Department of Economics, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, Meghalaya
Dr Soumyadip Chattopadhyay, Associate Professor, Economics, Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan; Visiting Senior Fellow at IMPRI.
Dr Prabhu Ponnusamy, Founder/CEO at Iotalytics Research and Analytics Solutions Pvt Ltd
Mr Aravind Unni, Urban Poverty Thematic Lead at Indo-Global Social Service Society; Visiting Senior Fellow at IMPRI
Dr B. Rajeshwari, Senior Consultant at Niiti Consulting; Visiting Senior Fellow (Honorary) at IMPRI
Dr Anamika Priyadarshini, Director- Knowledge Management, Research & Design Passing Gifts Private Limited, NOIDA, India; Visiting Senior Fellow, IMPRI
Prof Manjula Bharathy, Professor at Centre for Urban Policy and Governance & Dean of the School of Habitat Studies, TISS, Mumbai; Visiting Professor at IMPRI
Program Time Structure
| Program Time Structure | ||
| Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 5.0 | ||
| An Online National Winter & Spring School Program | ||
| A Five-Month Online Immersive Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Certificate Training Fellowship | ||
| Jan 18 – May 31, 2025 | Zoom | 3-5 pm | ||
| Classes on Ten Selected Saturday Evenings & Research Essay Submission | ||
| IMPRI #WebPolicyLearning | ||
| Time | Topic | Expert/s |
| Month 1 : Orientation, Qualitative Research Methods Class, Research Tools preparation & Testing, Stakeholder Mapping | ||
| Day 1 | January 18, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 3: 15 pm | Chair Opening Remarks | Prof Vibhuti Patel |
| 3:15 – 3:45 pm | Participants Intro | Team |
| 3:45 – 4:30 pm | Keynote Address | Dr Padma Deosthali |
| 4:30 – 5 pm | Progam Discussion | Team |
| Day 2 | January 25, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 4 pm | Ethics in Research | Dr Amar Jesani |
| 4 – 5 pm | Qualitative Fieldwork Research Case Studies | Dr B. Rajeshwari |
| Day 3 | February 1, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 4 pm | Computing, Technological and AI Skills for Researchers | Dr Prabhu Ponnusamy |
| 4 – 5 pm | Topic Selection & Fieldwork Method Interaction | Team |
| Month 2 : Pilot & Fieldwork, Research Writing & Reporting Class | ||
| Finalised Topic & Abstract Submission | February 6, 2025 (Thursday) | ||
| Day 4 | February 8, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 3:45 pm | Fieldwork & Qualitative Research Methods & Questionnaire | Dr Soumyadip Chattopadhyay |
| 3:45 – 4:30 pm | Tips for Carrying out Action Research Field Work | Dr Anamika Priyadarshini |
| 4:30 – 5 pm | Interactive Discussion Session: Fieldwork Update | Team |
| Day 5 | February 22, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 4 pm | Qualitative Research and Reporting | Prof Vibhuti Patel |
| 4 – 5 pm | Interactive Discussion Session | Team |
| Day 6 | March 1, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 4 pm | Qualitative Fieldwork Research Case Studies | Prof Manjula Bharathy |
| 4 – 5 pm | From Action Research to Policy Action & Impact | Mr Aravind Unni |
| Month 3: Fieldwork & Reporting | ||
| Day 7 | March 15, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 4 pm | Action Research, Policy and Impact: A Bureaucrat’s Experience | Dr Purnima Chauhan |
| 4 – 5 pm | Interactive Discussion Session: Fieldwork Update | Team |
| Day 8 | March 29, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 3:45 pm | Fundamentals of Qualitative Data Analysis | Prof Utpal K De |
| 3:45 – 4:30 pm | Report Writing & Editorial Guidance | Dr Simi Mehta |
| 4:30 – 5 pm | Interactive Discussion Session: Fieldwork Update | Team |
| Month 4 : Reporting, Analysis & Presentation | ||
| Extended Abstract Submission | April 5, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| Day 9 | April 12, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 3:45 pm | Qualitative Fieldwork Research Case Studies | Prof Gummadi Sridevi |
| 3:45 – 4:30 pm | Career for Researchers & Publications | Prof N. Manimekalai |
| 4:30 – 5 pm | Presentations | Team |
| Blog Article Submission | April 19, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| Day 10 | April 26, 2025 (Saturday) | ||
| 3 – 3:45 pm | Valedictory Session | Prof Mukul Asher |
| 3:45 – 4:30 pm | Program Presentation, Interactive Session, Discussion & Feedback | Team |
| 4:30 – 5 pm | Chair Closing Remarks & VoT | Team |
| Month 5 : Report Review & Submission | ||
| May 3, 2025 (Saturday) | Research Essay Draft Submission | ||
| May 24, 2025 (Saturday) | Research Essay Expert & Editorial Review | ||
| May 31, 2025 (Saturday) | Final Research Essay Submission | ||
Prospective Supervisors:
Conveners
Dr Simi Mehta, CEO & Editorial Director, IMPRI
Dr Arjun Kumar, Director, IMPRI
Coordinators
Vithita Jha, Visiting Researcher & Assistant Director
Dr Vaishali Singh, Assistant Research Manager
Priyanka Negi, Research Program & Editorial Associate
Swetha Shanker Pydimarry, Visiting Researcher & Assistant Editor

Link to Cohort 2 Fellows List and their Research Topics: https://www.impriindia.com/insights/participant-topic-lppyf-action-research-fieldwork/
Link to Cohort 2 Fellows List and their Research Topics: https://www.impriindia.com/insights/fellows-profile-public-policy-qualitative-participatory-action-research-fieldwork-cohort-2/
Previous Cohorts:
Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 4.0
Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 3.0
Public Policy Qualitative Participatory Action Research Fieldwork Fellowship- Cohort 2.0
Law and Public Policy Action Research Fieldwork Program | July-August 2023 | IMPRI #WebPolicyLearning
You might like IMPRI #WebPolicyTalk Series –
The State of Governance – #PublicPolicy | YouTube Channel & Playlists
IMPRI’s 3rd Annual Series of Thematic Deliberations and Analysis of Union Budget 2023-24 | February 2023 | IMPRI #WebPolicyTalk
Upcoming and Previous IMPRI #WebPolicyLearning Events: See here


