Janaagraha is a pioneering non-profit organisation committed to improving the quality of life in India’s cities and towns through participatory urban governance and systemic reforms. Initially launched to foster neighbourhood-level democracy, Janaagraha soon realised that citizen engagement needed to be complemented by reforms in government systems for long-term impact. This led to the development of the City-Systems framework, which focuses on building urban governance that delivers better infrastructure and services while ensuring transparency and accountability.

The organisation works with citizens, governments, and institutions to transform urban life by improving two dimensions: the quality of urban infrastructure and services—such as roads, sanitation, transport, and water—and the quality of citizenship, by enabling active citizen participation. Through collaboration with multiple stakeholders, Janaagraha tackles pressing urban challenges while empowering municipal systems to be more transparent, responsive, and capable. Their mission includes policy advocacy, capacity building, and leveraging technology to drive change. With a holistic two-track approach—participatory problem-solving and systemic transformation—Janaagraha continues to serve as a catalyst for equitable and sustainable urban development.

The Women in Public Finance Fellowship by Janaagraha is a unique, full-time, two-year professional opportunity aimed at nurturing a new generation of reform champions in Public Finance Management (PFM). This transformative program supports women professionals and municipal finance officers to work closely with governments and constitutional bodies to design and implement impactful urban finance reforms.

Launched in 2024, the Fellowship places selected candidates within Finance and Urban Development Departments across different states, where they engage in live projects on sustainable funding, effective expenditure, and public accountability. Fellows gain hands-on experience by analysing municipal budgets, designing digital finance tools, managing stakeholders, and supporting systemic reforms.

The Fellowship offers a competitive stipend, structured learning through webinars and workshops, access to a network of peers and professionals, and personalised mentorship from experts in the field. It is designed to develop real-world leadership and policy skills, allowing Fellows to influence urban governance from within the system. Through practical immersion and ongoing support, Fellows contribute to sustainable, inclusive urban finance solutions while building a career in the public governance sector.