FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General Queries

1. Who runs Disom?

Disom Foundation was setup in 2021 and is registered under Section 8 (1a, 1b, 1c) of the Companies Act, 2013.
It is run by a ‘Core Team’, comprising of some folks working on a full-time basis and many, many others contributing their time, efforts, knowledge, capabilities and labour part-time.

2. Is Disom affiliated to any political party or ideology?

No. Disom is not affiliated to any political party or ideology. It stands open to diverse ideologies and perspectives while remaining rooted in its core values and guiding principles. Its guiding principles adhere to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.

3. How is Disom funded?

The funds for Disom come from diverse sources. Many everyday citizens contribute to this initiative. A few trusts and foundations also extend support through small grants.

Programme-Related Queries

1. What is the structure and flow of the programme?

Our programme is divided into three parts:
The first few months are residential and focus on inner transformation.
The next phase entails in-situ immersions in different parts of the country.
The third phase comprises internships with various political leaders, corporate and media heads and development leaders.

Post the programme duration, we envisage an active engagement by the fellows towards their Dream Missions.

2. What is the medium of facilitation?

English and Hindi would be the primary medium, but Disom is committed to ensure that those who need support with translations are attended to. We employ alternative mediums as well, such as non-verbal and tactile.

3. Does Disom offer a degree or certificate?

Our programme offers no certificate or degree. We see the intrinsic value of the journey and learnings that this programme provides is in itself, something worth pursuing.

5. What would a typical day at Disom look like?

It is difficult to talk about a typical day as each day would be different, especially when we travel.
However, a day on any campus would include early morning quiet time and reflections, followed by yoga, trekking or any other physical activities. A day could include sessions with visiting faculty on developing conceptual clarity and core skills. Or specially curated theatre, music or film screenings, interspersed with activities such as working on a community farm or kitchen, team meetings, and interfaces with communities in the vicinity.
Monthly and quarterly travels for immersions will be built into the schedule.

6. What are the campus rules?

We strictly abide by the rules of the campus that we are in, at any given time.

7. Can I bring my family / partner / child along?

We do not provide facilities for partners / families / children as of now.

8. With so many institutions offering leadership studies already, how is Disom different?

Disom focuses on an inside-out process of nurturing the Self to move towards ‘Selfless Service’. Disom is not a classroom programme; it is designed to be a lived experience. Disom’s umbilical ties with the fellows goes beyond the mandatory programme duration: transformational leadership in society and politics is a lifelong pursuit.

On Programme Eligibility and Selection

1. Who can apply?

Any resident Indian, who is 21 years of age or above, can apply.

2. Is there an upper age limit for application?

No. Any persons 21 years of age and above, who consider themselves ready for the rigours of this programme, can apply.

3. Can overseas candidates apply?

No. The programme is currently available only to resident Indians.

4. Can persons with disabilities apply?

Yes. Disom is committed to the principles of inclusion and equal opportunity. We encourage and welcome persons with disabilities to apply for the programme.

5. Are there any seats reserved for certain categories of people?

There are no seat reservations of any nature. Disom is committed to diversity, inclusion and equity. We encourage and welcome people from all religions, castes, genders, and geographies within India, to apply for the programme.

6. What is the selection process timeline?

‣ March 31, 2022: Last date for application submission. 
April 2022 – May 2022: Application forms to be assessed, and the shortlisted applicants to be interviewed telephonically.
June 2022: One-day regional workshops to be conducted, online or offline.
June-end, 2022: Final selection workshop, after which the cohort is to be announced.
August 15, 2022: Programme to begin.

7. Is there a flexibility in the programme duration or attendance?

No. The programme has a flow, which is organic and unique to each cohort; it would not be possible to attend it in parts.

8. Can I defer my admission to the programme?

No. Our selection of individuals is for a specific cohort. However, if you are unable to join for some reason, we encourage you to apply again.

Queries Related to Future Path

1. Where will l get a job after this programme? Is there a placement support service offered by Disom?

This programme is not for job-seekers. We expect our fellows to work in the leadership space for social-political change. They would be equipped with learnings to generate resources for personal needs and to facilitate the same for others working with them.

2. What happens after the formal programme has ended?

The final segment of the Disom programme is built around the ‘Dream Mission’. This is where the fellows begin to work directly in their constituencies to come up with enduring solutions for issues closest to their hearts. This will be a new start in their public life.   Disom shall continue to be a mentor, as needed by our fellows, above and beyond the duration of the programme.

3. Since it is a social and political leadership programme, will I be able to attend to the social work or welfare projects that I am currently involved in?

We appreciate your involvement in socio-political initiatives. While your work can help define your Dream Mission, you would not be able to travel back and forth for your work, during the programme. If you choose to, you can work remotely, in your free time.
We urge you to view the Disom programme as an extension of the work you are already doing. And as an investment in yourself for a lifetime of service to society.

4. I do not aspire to join politics. Is this programme for me?

You may not want to join electoral politics, but if you can imagine yourself actively engaged with the politics of social change, then this could be the right place for you.

5. I aspire to be in politics. How will this programme help me?

Our endeavour is to help all those aspiring to work in the ‘socio-economic-political’ space: for you to find the resources and the strength within and without to follow your chosen path.

Queries on Programme Expenses

1. What about programme fees?

The programme does not charge a fee.

2. What are the boarding and lodging arrangements? Do we have to bear the related expenses?

Disom Fellows live in rooms, on a shared basis. Simple and wholesome food is provided.

Boarding and lodging is provided at no cost for the duration of the programme.

3. Is any financial support being offered?

Financial support may be offered on a case-to-case basis. The decision towards this would be made in an inclusive manner after the cohort is finalised.

4. Can I take up part-time work or engagements during the programme?

No. The programme requires full-time engagement with complete presence.

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