GRAAM Policy Scan- June 2024
GRAAM Welcomes you to the ‘Policy Scan,’ a quarterly newsletter that delves into the remarkable stories and milestones we’ve accomplished. Through this publication, we share the diverse range of activities we have undertaken in development research, action research, community consultation, academics, and beyond.
We take immense pride in our participation in the Rotary G20 Yoga Summit and are thrilled about the launching of the third cohort of the Youth for Governance (Y4G) Fellowship Mysuru 2024 in collaboration with the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF). This initiative aims to empower 25 young individuals from Mysore’s educational institutions to become active participants in governance. The fellows will receive comprehensive training in governance, community participation, and field research, with visits to key institutions like Mysore City Corporation and Vidhana Soudha (State Legislative Assembly). From April to June 2024, GRAAM has made significant strides in pursuing knowledge and impact at the grassroots level. Our initiatives have successfully explored the intricacies of local communities, providing valuable insights into governance and democratization, learning, Season three of Youth for Governance (Y4G) Fellowship Mysuru 2024 Inaugurated To enhance youth potential in innovation, creativity, and democratic engagement, the Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM), in collaboration with the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), has launched the third cohort of the Youth Governance Fellowship Mysuru 2024. This initiative aims to empower 25 young individuals from Mysore’s educational institutions to become active participants in governance. The fellows will receive comprehensive training in governance, community participation, and field research, along with visits to key institutions like Mysore City Corporation and Vidhana Soudha (State Legislative Assembly) . Formally launched on July 5th, this fellowship addresses the need for increased youth engagement in India’s democratic processes, particularly in Karnataka. More Information skill development and livelihood, public health, and indigenous community development. Through our Policy Boot Camp, we nurture proactive leaders in public policy and we designed a Rural Development Course for the Chanakya Social Fellowship Programme. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of Cyberverse Foundation’s Cyber Security School Hygiene Program in Mysuru District, Karnataka.
By closely attuning ourselves to the ‘voices of the grassroots,’ GRAAM remains committed to making a meaningful impact on the ground. This newsletter serves as a platform to highlight our ongoing efforts and shed light on the invaluable perspectives we encounter along the way.
Lead Story

Season three of Youth for Governance (Y4G) Fellowship Mysuru 2024 Launched
To enhance youth potential in innovation, creativity, and democratic engagement, the Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM), in collaboration with the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), has launched the third cohort of the Youth Governance Fellowship Mysuru 2024. This initiative aims to empower 25 young individuals from Mysore’s educational institutions to

Celebrating Participation: Unveiling the Biggest Festival of Democracy
The 2024 Lok Sabha Elections showcased remarkable participation nationwide, marking a significant milestone in India’s democratic process. This event not only emphasized governance selection but also highlighted public awareness and commitment to nation-building. Historic voter turnout and widespread anticipation have profoundly influenced national policies and leadership dynamics. The Election Commission’s
Graam Academics

Insights from GRAAM’s Policy Boot Camp: Nurturing proactive leaders in public policy
The Policy Boot Camp, a collaborative effort by GRAAM and Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, provided 36 MA Public Policy students with an immersive grassroots learning experience from February 19 to March 7, 2024. Held at GRAAM’s Satya Hall in Mysuru, the program integrated online modules on government schemes and research
Grassroots Initiatives

Designing Rural Development Course for Chanakya Social Fellowship Programme
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Chanakya University and GRAAM Dr. Basavaraju R Shreshta, Executive Director, GRAAM engaged as a faculty for designing and teaching a course on Rural Development for the Fellowship in Social Sciences (CFSS) in the Chanakya University. Chanakya University and the Grassroots Research

Interns Speak
GRAAM’s internship provides a valuable opportunity for students and young professionals to cultivate their skills while contributing to real-world projects. Interns gain practical experience working alongside our research teams, tackling critical social issues. This exposure to diverse disciplines and expert mentorship fosters a strong foundation for careers in public policy

Transforming young minds in Government Schools with Aspiration, Inspiration, and Motivation (AIM)
India is leading the transformation of school education with the New Education Policy, emphasizing essential 21st-century skills. This shift aims to prepare students for global competitiveness, societal contribution, and personal success. Crucially, introducing SSLC (class 10th) children to various education and career paths is vital. As students prepare for their
Policy Engagement

Capturing Perspectives: VOSTPA Survey Enhances Educational Insights and Policy Recommendations
The “Voices of Students, Teachers, Parents, and Alumni” (VOSTPA) survey, conducted by the Anahata UE Foundation in partnership with GRAAM (Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement), is an in-depth study designed to capture diverse perspectives within the educational ecosystem. By gathering insights from students, teachers, parents, and alumni, the survey identifies
Research at GRAAM

Community Needs Assessment for ABFRL CSR in Andhra Pradesh
Aditya Birla Fashion Retail Limited (ABFRL), a prominent apparel company in India, highlights its dedication to social responsibility through targeted Community Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. In 2022, ABFRL opened a manufacturing unit in Pulivendula, Andhra Pradesh, generating over 2,000 jobs and significantly empowering local women. Additionally, ABFRL has implemented various

Impact Assessment of Cyberverse Foundation’s Cyber Security School Hygiene Program in Mysuru District, Karnataka
The digital age plays a pivotal role in students’ education and recreation, yet it also exposes them to various cyber threats. Cybersecurity hygiene, is as same as physical hygiene, involves daily practices that protect individuals and their information online from malware, hacking, and scams. Recognizing the importance of this skill,
GRAAM Events

Promoting Holistic Health: GRAAM’s Participation in the Rotary G20 Yoga Summit
In a vibrant celebration of holistic wellness, GRAAM proudly participated in the Rotary G20 Yoga Summit at Karnataka State Open University Convocation Hall in Mysuru. The event featured esteemed figures like Padma Shri Dr. H.R. Nagendra and Sri Someshwaranatha Swamiji, highlighting Yoga’s transformative potential in fostering a healthier society. Distinguished

Communitizing Evaluation: Enabling Community Participation in Monitoring and Evaluation
During the gLOCAL Evaluation Week on June 7, 2024, GRAAM (Grassroots Research And Advocacy Movement) and ISDM (Indian School of Development Management) co-hosted a pivotal panel on “Communitizing Evaluation – Enabling Community Participation in Monitoring and Evaluation.” This event underscored the crucial role of local communities in development initiatives, aiming