Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Program

Chief Minister Fellowship Program is a Maharashtra Government fellowship that gives young graduates an opportunity to work directly with the government administration and understand policy implementation, governance, and district-level development work. Selected fellows receive around ₹61,500 per month along with IIT Bombay public policy training and practical administrative exposure under the Planning Department, Government of Maharashtra.

Introduction of Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026: A Brief Insight

The Maharashtra Government has officially started the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27 (Mukhyamantri Fellowship Karyakram) to provide talented and motivated youth with an opportunity to work directly with the government administration and participate in the policy implementation process at the district level. The scheme is implemented by the Planning Department, Government of Maharashtra, through the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Mumbai, in academic partnership with IIT Bombay.

The Maharashtra Government originally launched this fellowship program in 2015 during the tenure of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. After receiving a strong response from young professionals in previous years, the government has now continued the program for the 2026-27 session with updated financial benefits, structured training modules, and district-level project responsibilities.

Under the Chief Minister Fellowship Program Maharashtra 2026, selected fellows work closely with the District Collector and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Zilla Parishad, in different districts of Maharashtra. The main objective of this fellowship is to expose young citizens to real government functioning, public policy implementation, project monitoring, development administration, and decision-making processes so that socially committed and aware leaders can be developed for the future.

The fellowship is designed as a full-time professional engagement where fellows actively support government departments in planning, monitoring, reviewing, and implementing important development projects. Fellows may work on rural development initiatives, digital governance systems, public service delivery improvement, policy research, monitoring of flagship schemes, and district-level innovation projects, depending on the assignment given by the administration.

One of the biggest highlights of this fellowship is the strong academic collaboration with IIT Bombay. Along with fieldwork experience, fellows must also complete a Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Public Policy conducted by IIT Bombay. The academic component includes offline training sessions at the IIT Bombay campus, along with online weekend lectures throughout the fellowship period.

Under the revised structure approved through Government Resolution dated 8 April 2026, selected fellows receive a monthly stipend of ₹56,100 along with a ₹5,400 monthly travel allowance, taking the total monthly financial support to approximately ₹61,500. The government has fixed a total of 60 fellowship positions, including reservation provisions for women candidates.

The fellowship is open for young graduates who have secured at least 60% marks in graduation and possess a minimum of 1 year of full-time work experience. Candidates must also know the Marathi language along with basic Hindi and English communication skills. The online application process officially starts from 8 May 2026 through the official fellowship portal. The last date to apply for the Chief Minister Fellowship Program of the Maharashtra Government is 27th of May 2026.

The selection process of the Chief Minister Fellowship Program is also highly competitive and structured. Candidates must first appear for an online objective examination and essay assessment. Shortlisted candidates are then called for interviews in Mumbai. Final merit is prepared using a combined score of the MCQ test, essay evaluation, and interview performance.

Unlike regular government recruitment, this fellowship does not provide permanent government employment. However, it offers practical governance exposure that helps candidates build strong careers in public policy, administration, development consulting, governance research, social sector leadership, and policy implementation.

Students and young professionals who are exploring government-backed career exposure opportunities can also check schemes and programs like the PM Internship Scheme, which provides industry exposure to youth through top private companies, and the Mukhyamantri Yuva Karya Prashikshan Yojana and various youth-focused opportunities launched by state governments.

The Chief Minister Fellowship Program, Maharashtra, stands out because it combines governance exposure, public policy learning, district-level fieldwork, IIT Bombay certification, and financial support within a single structured framework. Young candidates who want to understand how the government system actually works at the ground level can gain practical administrative experience through this prestigious fellowship.

If you want to explore more welfare schemes, youth programs, scholarship schemes, employment initiatives, fellowships, and financial assistance programs launched by the Maharashtra Government, then you can also visit our All Welfare Schemes List of Maharashtra Government section for complete information.

Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries

The Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27 allows selected young professionals to work directly with the Maharashtra Government administration while receiving financial support, policy-level exposure, and academic training from IIT Bombay. Apart from the monthly fellowship amount, candidates also gain practical governance experience by working on real government projects at the district level.

• Selected fellows receive a monthly stipend of ₹56,100/-.
• An additional monthly travel allowance of ₹5,400/- is also provided.
• Total monthly financial support reaches ₹61,500/-.
• Fellows get an opportunity to work directly with the District Collector and the CEO of Zilla Parishad.
• Selected candidates gain practical exposure to government administration and policy implementation.
• Fellows participate in planning, monitoring, and executing government projects.
• The program includes a Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Public Policy conducted by IIT Bombay.
• A separate certificate is issued by IIT Bombay after successful completion of the academic program.
• The Maharashtra Government also provides an official fellowship completion certificate.
• Selected fellows receive temporary government ID cards and official email IDs during the fellowship period.
• Fellows are treated at a working level equivalent to Group-A Government Officers.
• Group Personal Accident Insurance coverage is provided as per government rules.
• During mandatory offline IIT Bombay training, candidates may receive ₹2,250 per day if accommodation or food arrangements are not provided.
• The fellowship provides strong exposure for careers related to public policy, governance, administration, social sector consulting, UPSC preparation, and development management.

One of the biggest advantages of this fellowship is that candidates get real field-level administrative exposure instead of classroom-only learning. Fellows work on government initiatives, district development projects, public service delivery systems, and policy implementation activities while understanding how the Maharashtra Government machinery functions at the ground level.

Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled

The Maharashtra Government has fixed detailed eligibility conditions for the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27 to select young, talented, and professionally capable candidates who can work closely with the government administration at the district level. Applicants must carefully check all eligibility requirements before submitting the online application form because candidates who fail to meet even a single condition may be disqualified during verification.

• Applicant must be a citizen of India.
• The candidate must have completed a graduation in any discipline from a recognised university.
• A minimum of 60% marks in graduation is mandatory.
• The applicant must have at least 1 year of full-time work experience.
• Full-time internship, apprenticeship, or articleship completed as part of a professional course will also be considered as experience.
• Full-time self-employment or entrepreneurship experience is also eligible with self-declaration.
• The minimum age should be 21 years.
• The maximum age should be 26 years as on the application start date.
• Only candidates born between 8 May 2000 and 8 May 2005 (both dates inclusive) are eligible to apply.
• The applicant must know how to read, write, and speak Marathi.
• Working knowledge of Hindi and English is also required.
• Basic computer handling and internet knowledge is mandatory.
• Candidates who have already completed the Chief Minister Fellowship Program in any previous year cannot apply again.

The fellowship is designed for young professionals who want to understand public administration, governance, development planning, and policy implementation while working directly with district-level government machinery. Selected fellows work under the supervision of the District Collector or CEO of Zilla Parishad and contribute to real government projects during the 12-month fellowship period.

Documents Required to be Attached

Applicants do not need to upload original documents while filling out the online application form for the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27. However, all shortlisted candidates must produce original documents during the interview and verification process. Candidates should keep all required documents ready before applying to avoid rejection during verification.

Educational Qualification Documents

• Graduation Marksheet and Degree Certificate
• Proof showing a minimum 60% marks in graduation
• Additional academic certificates (if applicable)

Age and Identity Proof

• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card (if available)
• Passport / Voter ID / Driving Licence / Any valid Government ID proof
• Date of birth proof confirming eligibility between 8 May 2000 and 8 May 2005

Work Experience Related Documents

• Work Experience Certificate from the employer
• Internship / Apprenticeship / Articleship proof (if counted as experience)
• Self-declaration for self-employment or entrepreneurship experience
• Offer letter, relieving letter, salary slips, or supporting professional documents (if available)

Medical and Other Mandatory Documents

• Medical Fitness Certificate from a registered medical practitioner (required at the joining stage)
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Active mobile number and email ID
• Bond paper and undertaking documents at the time of joining

Candidates should ensure that all information entered in the online application form matches their official documents because the Maharashtra Government conducts strict verification during the interview and selection process. Any mismatch in marks, age, work experience, or identity details may lead to cancellation of candidature.

How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of this Scheme

Eligible candidates can apply for the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27 only through online mode using the official fellowship portal of the Maharashtra Government. The application process officially starts from 8 May 2026. Candidates should preferably use a laptop or desktop computer while filling out the form to avoid technical issues during registration and payment.

Step 1: First, visit the official Mukhyamantri Fellowship Portal.

Step 2: Complete the registration process by entering basic details such as name, mobile number, email ID, and password to create your account.

Step 3: Log in to the portal and fill out the complete personal profile, educational qualification details, language knowledge, and work experience information carefully.

Step 4: Enter graduation marks, date of birth, and professional experience details exactly according to official documents because verification takes place during the interview stage.

Step 5: Fill in all additional details related to computer knowledge, communication skills, and other required eligibility information.

Step 6: The portal will capture your live photograph using your device camera. You will also need to record a 15-second live video clip in which you must state your name, village/city, and district name. Make sure your camera and microphone are working before this step.

Step 7: Carefully check whether all eligibility conditions are fulfilled before proceeding to the final application stage.

Step 8: Pay the application fee of ₹500/- through the online payment gateway available on the portal.

Step 9: Complete all four mandatory stages of the application process because incomplete applications are not accepted by the system.

Step 10: After successful submission and payment, download or print the application confirmation page for future reference.

The Maharashtra Government has clearly stated that merely registering on the portal is not enough. Candidates must successfully complete registration, profile filling, eligibility confirmation, and fee payment before the deadline to submit a valid application.

Applicants should also note that original documents are not required while submitting the online form. However, shortlisted candidates must produce original documents during the interview and verification process conducted in Mumbai.

Candidates can apply till 27-05-2026 to enrol themselves for the examination under the Chief Minister Fellowship Program of the Maharashtra Government.

Selection Process of Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme 2026

The Maharashtra Government will select fellows for the Chief Minister Fellowship Programme 2026-27 through a 2-stage selection process consisting of an Online Objective Test, Essay Writing, and Personal Interview. The complete selection process is designed to assess the analytical ability, governance understanding, communication skills, leadership qualities, and decision-making capability of applicants.

Stage 1 – Online Objective Test and Essay Writing

Under the first stage, applicants will have to appear for an Online Objective Examination and Essay Submission at the allotted examination centre.

Part 1: Online Objective Test

• The examination will consist of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• The medium of examination will primarily be English.
• Wherever feasible, Marathi translations of questions and answer options will also be provided.
• The total marks of the online test will be 100.
• Each question carries 1 mark.
• The total duration of the online examination will be 60 minutes.

Composition of Online Objective Test

Part 2: Essay Writing Test

After the objective examination, candidates will also have to complete an Essay Writing test at the examination centre.

• Applicants will have to select 1 topic out of 3 optional topics.
• The essay can be written in English or Marathi.
• The essay must be typed on the computer at the examination centre.
• For Marathi typing, candidates can use phonetic typing or typewriter typing options.
• The maximum word limit of the essay will be 500 words.
• The total duration for essay writing will be 45 minutes.

After completion of Stage 1, the top 210 candidates securing the highest marks in the Online Objective Test will be shortlisted for the next stage of selection.

Stage 2 – Essay Assessment and Personal Interview

The second stage of selection consists of essay evaluation and personal interview rounds conducted by the Maharashtra Government.

• Part 1: Essays of the 210 shortlisted candidates will be assessed.
• Part 2: Shortlisted applicants will be called for Personal Interviews.
• Part 3: The final list of selected fellows will be published after completion of interviews.

Applicants shortlisted for interviews will receive the interview date, time, and related instructions through their registered email ID.

Final Merit and Marks Distribution

The Maharashtra Government will prepare the final merit list using the following weightage system:

After completion of all stages, the Government will publish the final list of 60 selected fellows under the Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme 2026-27.

Important Instructions for Candidates

• Candidates shortlisted for interviews must carry original documents along with photocopies.
• Documents include educational certificates, experience letters, identity proof, and other supporting documents.
• Travel expenses or any other expenses incurred for examination or interview will not be reimbursed by the government.
• Applicants should regularly check their registered email ID for interview updates and official communication.

Work Profile and Responsibilities of Selected Fellows

Selected fellows under the Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme 2026-27 will work directly with the district administration and government machinery at the field level. Fellows will mainly work under the guidance of the District Collector or Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Zilla Parishad in their allotted district.

The fellowship is designed to provide real-time governance exposure to young professionals by involving them in development projects, policy implementation, monitoring activities, and administrative coordination.

• Assist district administration in the implementation of ongoing government schemes and development projects.
• Support planning and execution of new district-level initiatives and innovative governance projects.
• Monitor the progress of government programs and prepare analytical reports.
• Conduct field visits, surveys, inspections, and data collection activities.
• Coordinate with different government departments and local authorities.
• Participate in policy analysis, public administration, and governance-related assignments.
• Help district authorities identify implementation challenges and suggest solutions.
• Prepare monthly reports and submit them to the concerned office and the Directorate of Economics and Statistics.
• Participate in review meetings, presentations, and administrative discussions.

Fellows may work on one major project or multiple assignments during the 12-month fellowship period, depending upon district requirements and government priorities.

IIT Bombay Academic Program Under CM Fellowship

The Maharashtra Government has partnered with IIT Bombay to provide a specialised academic component under the Chief Minister Fellowship Programme. Selected fellows will undergo a structured academic program in Public Policy along with fieldwork experience.

The academic course is mandatory for all selected fellows. Fellows who complete both the fieldwork and the IIT Bombay academic program will receive fellowship completion certification.

• IIT Bombay will conduct a Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Public Policy for fellows.
• The academic program includes both offline classroom training and online learning sessions.
• The first offline training session of approximately 2 weeks will be conducted at IIT Bombay at the beginning of the fellowship.
• A second offline academic session of 1 week will be conducted after the completion of 6 months.
• The final offline academic module of 1 week will be organised at the end of the fellowship.
• Online lectures and sessions will be conducted throughout the year on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays as required.
• Attendance in all online and offline sessions is compulsory for fellows.
• Selected fellows will receive a separate certificate from IIT Bombay after successful completion of the academic program.

The IIT Bombay partnership makes the Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme one of the most prestigious government fellowship initiatives available for young professionals in India.

Bond Rules and Stipend Retention Explained

The Maharashtra Government has introduced specific bond and financial commitment conditions under the Chief Minister Fellowship Programme 2026-27 to ensure that selected fellows complete the entire fellowship tenure sincerely.

• Selected fellows must execute a compulsory bond at the time of joining the fellowship.
• During the first 3 months of the fellowship, one-third of the monthly stipend will be temporarily withheld by the government.
• The retained amount will be released only after successful completion of the full 12-month fellowship period.
• If a fellow leaves the fellowship without valid reasons or violates the conditions of the program, the government may forfeit the retained amount.
• In certain situations, fellows may also have to pay compensation to the government for leaving the fellowship midway without proper approval.
• Applicants who wish to resign must submit prior written notice through the proper channel.

Applicants should carefully understand all fellowship conditions before joining the programme because the fellowship operates on a contractual basis and requires full-time commitment.

Important Terms and Conditions Fellows Must Follow

Selected fellows under the Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme must follow various service conditions, discipline rules, and administrative guidelines during the entire fellowship period.

• The fellowship is a full-time program and fellows cannot undertake any other job, private practice, business, or full-time academic course during the tenure.
• The total duration of the fellowship will remain 12 months only and no extension will be granted.
• The fellowship does not guarantee permanent government employment after completion.
• Selected fellows must follow office timings and administrative instructions issued by the placement authority.
• Fellows may have to work beyond normal office hours and travel for official work whenever required.
• Accommodation facilities will not be provided by the government.
• Fellows must reside in their allotted district or city during the fellowship period.
• Prior permission from authorised officers will be necessary before leaving headquarters.
• Fellows cannot participate in political activities or political movements during the fellowship.
• Confidentiality of official work and government information must be strictly maintained during and even after completion of the fellowship.
• Only 8 days of casual leave will be allowed during the complete fellowship tenure.
• Additional leave beyond the permissible limit may result in a deduction from the monthly stipend.
• Police verification and medical fitness certification will be completed after joining.

Applicants should carefully read all official terms and conditions before accepting the fellowship offer issued by the Maharashtra Government.

What Happens After Completion of the Fellowship?

After successful completion of the 12-month tenure, fellows under the Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Programme receive valuable governance exposure, policy implementation experience, and official certification from both the Maharashtra Government and IIT Bombay.

• Selected fellows will receive an official Fellowship Completion Certificate from the Maharashtra Government.
• Fellows who complete the academic program will also receive a separate certificate from IIT Bombay.
• The fellowship experience helps candidates build expertise in governance, public administration, policy implementation, and district-level administration.
• Many fellows use the experience for careers in public policy, the development sector, administration, consulting, research, and higher education.
• The fellowship also helps candidates develop leadership, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Important Links Available

• Chief Minister Fellowship Program Official Portal.
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Fellowship Program Official Guidelines 2026-2027.
• Apply Online for Maharashtra CM Fellowship 2026-27.
• Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Maharashtra.

Contact Details in Case of Help Needed

Candidates who need assistance regarding the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27 application process, eligibility, payment issues, or selection process can contact the official fellowship support team during working hours.

• Official Email ID: cmfellowship-mah@gov.in
• Helpline Number: 7066951951
• Helpline Timing: Monday to Saturday, 09:30 AM to 05:30 PM
• Implementing Department: Planning Department, Government of Maharashtra
• Implementing Agency: Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Maharashtra Government, Mumbai

Applicants should use only the official Maharashtra Government fellowship portal and authorised contact details for application-related communication and should avoid relying on unofficial websites or social media sources for important updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Chief Minister Fellowship Program Maharashtra 2026-27

Q. What is the Chief Minister Fellowship Program, Maharashtra?

Ans. Chief Minister Fellowship Program is a Maharashtra Government initiative that allows young professionals to work directly with the government administration on development projects, policy implementation, and public governance at the district level.

Q. Which department runs this fellowship program?

Ans. The Planning Department, Government of Maharashtra, operates the fellowship through the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES), Maharashtra.

Q. When was the fellowship originally launched?

Ans. The program was originally launched in 2015 during the tenure of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Q. How many fellows will be selected in 2026-27?

Ans. A total of 60 fellows will be selected under the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026-27.

Q. Is a reservation available for women candidates?

Ans. Yes. At least one-third of the total seats are reserved for women candidates under the fellowship program.

Q. What is the monthly stipend under the fellowship?

Ans. Selected fellows receive a monthly stipend of ₹56,100/- along with ₹5,400/- as travel allowance, making the total monthly support around ₹61,500/-.

Q. What is the age limit for the Chief Minister Fellowship Program 2026?

Ans. Applicants must be between 21 and 26 years of age as on 8 May 2026. Candidates born between 8 May 2000 and 8 May 2005 are eligible.

Q. Is 60% in graduation compulsory?

Ans. Yes. Candidates must have secured at least 60% marks in graduation from a recognised university.

Q. Is work experience mandatory?

Ans. Yes. Applicants must have at least 1 year of full-time work experience. Internship, apprenticeship, articleship, self-employment, or entrepreneurship experience may also be considered under prescribed conditions.

Q. Can previous CM Fellowship candidates apply again?

Ans. No. Candidates who have already completed the Chief Minister Fellowship Program in any previous year cannot apply again.

Q. Is this fellowship considered a permanent government job?

Ans. No. This is a contractual 12-month fellowship program and does not provide any guarantee of permanent government employment.

Q. What is the selection process for the fellowship?

Ans. The selection process includes an online objective test, essay writing assessment, and a personal interview. Final merit is prepared based on the marks obtained in all stages.

Q. What is the marks distribution in the selection process?

Ans. Final selection is based on:

• Objective Test – 30 Marks
• Essay Assessment – 20 Marks
• Interview – 50 Marks

Q. Where will selected fellows be posted?

Ans. Fellows will be posted in selected districts of Maharashtra and will work under the District Collector or CEO of Zilla Parishad.

Q. What kind of work do fellows perform?

Ans. Fellows assist in the implementation of government schemes, policy monitoring, district planning, project execution, data analysis, and administrative review work.

Q. What is the role of IIT Bombay in this fellowship?

Ans. IIT Bombay conducts the mandatory Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Public Policy for selected fellows as part of the fellowship program.

Q. Is accommodation provided to fellows?

Ans. No. Fellows must arrange their own accommodation in the district or city of posting.

Q. Can fellows do another job or course during the fellowship?

Ans. No. The fellowship is a full-time program. Fellows cannot undertake another job, private business, or full-time academic course during the fellowship period.

Q. What is the bond condition in the fellowship?

Ans. Fellows must complete the full fellowship period. During the first three months, one-third of the stipend is withheld and released only after successful completion of the fellowship.

Q. How many casual leaves are allowed?

Ans. Fellows can avail only 8 days of casual leave during the complete 12-month fellowship tenure.

Q. What happens if a fellow resigns before completion?

Ans. The fellow must provide prior written notice and may have to pay compensation or forfeit benefits according to bond conditions and government rules.

Q. What is the application fee for the fellowship?

Ans. Candidates need to pay an online application fee of ₹500/-.

Q. How can candidates apply for the fellowship?

Ans. Eligible applicants can apply online through the official Mukhyamantri Fellowship Portal.

Tabassum

Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.