VANDANAM SAMAJIK SANSTHAN
Volunteer Opportunity: Research, Policy & Strategy Associate
Position: Research, Policy & Strategy Associate Uttarakhand Region (Volunteer)
Organization: Vandanam Trust [Samajik Sansthan]
Initiative: Devbhoomi Swavlamban Initiative — Kumaon Region, Uttarakhand
Mode: Remote-first with periodic field engagement in Uttarakhand villages
Commitment: Minimum 6–12 months · Flexible / Part-time acceptable
Compensation: Voluntary. Basic Stay and Food during official field visits will be covered
Reports To: Core Founding Team
About the Initiative
Vandanam Trust -The Samajik Sansthan is working towards long-term village self-reliance in the Himalayan region of Uttarakhand through a grounded and community-led approach. Our work focuses on strengthening existing local systems rather than imposing external development models. The initiative works across rural tourism, women-led livelihood generation, regenerative agriculture, local food systems, cultural preservation, and ecological regeneration.
Role Overview
We are looking for a self-motivated and research-oriented individual who can help bridge the gap between policy, implementation, and on-ground realities. The role requires someone capable of independently studying government schemes, development models, policy frameworks, and successful case studies relevant to rural development in Uttarakhand and similar geographies.
Key Responsibilities
· Research existing Central and State Government schemes related to rural tourism, SHGs, agriculture, ecology, and rural infrastructure.
· Identify opportunities where the initiative can align with existing government support systems.
· Study NGOs, cooperatives, and village-level models working in similar contexts across India and internationally.
· Assist in preparing strategic documents, research briefs, concept notes, and implementation frameworks.
· Organise findings into structured documentation and presentations.
· Participate in occasional field visits and community interactions when required.
Who We Are Looking For
· Strong curiosity about rural and community-led development in the Himalayan region in India
· Ability to independently research and synthesise information
· Strong writing and analytical skills
· Comfortable working in an evolving startup-like NGO environment
· Someone who genuinely resonates with the vision and cause
What You Will Gain
· Direct involvement in a meaningful grassroots initiative
· Exposure to real policy, development, and implementation challenges
· Hands-on learning in rural systems, sustainability, and social impact
· A portfolio of meaningful work and field experience
· Opportunity to help shape a long-term Himalayan village regeneration model
How to Apply
Send us:
- A short introduction about yourself
- Why this work interests you
- Your background / CV / LinkedIn profile
- Any relevant experience (if applicable)
We are not looking for perfect resumes. We are looking for people who genuinely care.
Apply via:
Mail: [email protected]
WhatsApp / Call: +91-8267040336
Subject / Opening Line:
“Volunteer Application — Research & Strategy Uttarakhand Region ”
I suggest excluding travel reimbursement. Individuals who are genuinely interested in research are often willing to invest in their own travel to learn, explore, and contribute. This personal commitment helps ensure genuine interest and long-term engagement. Providing free travel from the beginning may make it difficult to assess their actual level of commitment.
However, food and accommodation can be provided, as participants will be hosted as guests by a village family during their stay.
Work Location: Remote
