Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, in partnership with Dasra, has announced the opening of applications for the Samvardhan Biodiversity & Conservation Fellowship, a year-long initiative aimed at supporting emerging conservation leaders across India.
The inaugural 12-month fellowship has been co-curated by the two organisations and seed-funded by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. It seeks to support early-career conservation researchers and practitioners, especially those from grassroots communities, underrepresented regions and non-elite institutions.
According to the organisers, the fellowship is intended to address challenges faced by young conservationists, including limited access to mentorship, financial support and professional networks.
Selected fellows will receive a seed grant of Rs 3 lakh for practice-led or exploratory conservation work, along with mentorship from conservation experts and opportunities for peer learning, workshops and community-building activities.
Speaking on the initiative, Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies said, “Some of the most important conservation work in India is happening quietly, far from visibility and formal recognition.”
She added that the fellowship was built on the belief that young practitioners “deserve trust, time, and the freedom to ask difficult questions, explore new pathways, and grow within a community of peers.”
Neera Nundy, Co-founder & Partner, Dasra said the future of conservation in India depends on supporting young practitioners to navigate complex systems of change.
The fellowship is open to conservation practitioners below 35 years of age engaged in research, community work and public-interest conservation initiatives.
Applications can be submitted through samvardhan.dasra.org
About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP)
Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP) is a leading philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing India’s most critical social challenges. Established by Rohini Nilekani, RNP focuses on fostering systemic change across key areas such as education, environment, gender equity, and public accountability.
RNP’s approach is grounded in the belief that lasting impact comes from strengthening Samaaj (society), alongside the efforts of government and market. By supporting innovative and scalable solutions, RNP partners with organizations and leaders committed to creating inclusive, equitable, and sustainable change.
Over the years, RNP has played a pivotal role in empowering communities, advancing public interest, and fostering responsible environmental stewardship. Through trust-based, collaborative partnerships, RNP continues to drive transformative change, working towards a more inclusive and resilient India.
About DASRA
Dasra is a strategic philanthropic support organisation founded in 1999, with roots in supporting early-stage nonprofits through funding and capacity building. Over the years, it has evolved into a leading systems orchestrator in India’s social impact ecosystem, enabling collective action by connecting nonprofits, funders, and government stakeholders to address India’s most pressing development challenges. Dasra works towards a vision of an India where a billion people thrive with dignity and equity.
