About
The Prime Minister’s Rural Development Fellowship (PMRDF) is an initiative of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) Government of India (GoI), implemented in collaboration with State Governments. The focus of the programme is on reduction of poverty and improving the lives of people in rural India.
Objectives
The PMRDF programme was formally launched in September 2011 with the objectives of:
providing short-term catalytic support to the district administration in IAP districts to improve programme delivery.
developing a cadre of committed and competent development leaders and facilitators, who are available as a resource for rural development over the long term.
engaging with many stakeholders such as the government, public sector institutions, and civil society actors in promoting the efficiency of social protection programmes.
Selection Process
The PMRD Fellows are selected through a pan-India process through All India Common Entrance Test (AICAT), which is followed by a written exam and personal interviews.
Tenure of Fellowship
The duration of Fellowship under the PMRDF shall be for a total period of two years and shall include an orientation period not exceeding three months.
During two-years of the fellowship, PMRD Fellows work closely with the District Collector of the Integrated Action Plan (IAP) districts in improving programme delivery and interface with marginalised sections of the population with the aim of reducing developmental and governance deficits. Immediately after successful completion of the two year fellowship, a PMRD Fellow is required to spend one year in public service as a paid full-time employee of the State Rural Livelihood Mission in the State to which she/he is assigned.
Eligibility to be considered as a PMRD Fellow
The eligibility criteria for selection as a Fellow shall be the following:
A. Essential criteria:-
Should be a citizen of India.
Age between 22-27 years at the time of application. For candidates belonging to SC/ST category, the maximum age limit will be 32 years.
At least a graduate from a recognized University with a four-year degree course, including those like Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Engineering, Law, Medicine etc., or a post-graduate from a recognized University (in 5
case of a graduate holding degree of a course duration of less than four years). It is clarified that a one year post graduate course will also be considered valid for eligibility if it is regular, full time and if the degree/equivalent diploma is recognized by the AICTE/MCI/UGC.
At least 50% marks in the aggregate or equivalent grade at the graduate or Post-graduate level, whichever is qualifying.
Physical fitness, certified by Government Medical Hospital, for the arduous nature of the work
B. Desirable criteria:-
Knowledge of local language and customs.
Work experience in related fields.
Excellence in extra-curricular activities like art, culture, sports etc. at High School/College level.
Leadership role in high school/ college/ work place.
