Graduate Certificate in Public Policy
Defence and Foreign Affairs
The programme aims to familiarise students with public policy analysis through the lens of geopolitics, strategic studies, and economic perspectives. During the course, students will explore the significance of military power in global affairs and gain an in-depth understanding of India’s foreign policy. They will also study texts like the Arthashastra to grasp its application in modern statecraft.
Upon completion, students will be proficient in understanding the interplay between political and economic forces on a global scale and will be skilled in analysing issues related to defence and international relations. A unique aspect of the programme is the inclusion of officers from the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy, along with civilians in every cohort. This promotes a rich classroom diversity that fosters a multitude of perspectives and enriches students’ learning experiences.
Designed for full-time professionals, the GCPP offers a seamless online learning experience. The programme spans 12 weeks and includes weekly webinars (usually held on Saturdays) and two interactive virtual workshops. Wherever you are, just ensure a stable internet connection, and you’re ready to dive in.
GCPP Cohort 44
| FORMAT | 12 weeks · online |
| CADENCE | Saturdays · 9:30–15:30 IST |
| EARLY BIRD | 29 March 2026 · 10% scholarship |
| APPLY BY | 26 April 2026 |
| PROGRAMME BEGINS | 09 May 2026 |
| PROGRAMME ENDS | 01 August 2026 |
| FEE | ₹42,000 + 18% GST |
How it works
Designed for working professionals
Saturday webinars, 7–10 hours of weekly commitment, and a 3-day in-person workshop you can plan around.
Core policy modules
Five weeks covering policy analysis, economic reasoning, and effective communication.
Defence and foreign affairs specialisation
Seven weeks covering strategic studies, Arthashasthra and strategic economics.
Online academic conference
Two-day online conference in week 5 — keynote sessions and breakout tracks with practising experts.
Exercise Amrut
3-day simulation exercise.
Certificate & alumni network
Graduate Certificate in Public Policy. Join 10,000+ Takshashila alumni across government, tech, law, and civil society.
Curriculum
Policy Analysis and Concepts
Foundations of public policy — nations, states, governments, and the paradoxes they face.
UNITS- U.01Introduction to Public Policy
- U.02Nations, States, and Governments
- U.03Paradoxes and Pitfalls of the Government
- U.04Goals of the Government
- U.05Introduction to Kautilya's Arthashastra
Economic Reasoning for Public Policy
Economic reasoning, the price system, trade, and government intervention in markets.
UNITS- U.01Introduction to Economic Reasoning
- U.02The Price System
- U.03Market Dynamics
- U.04Introduction to Macroeconomics
- U.05Trade
- U.06Government Intervention in Markets
Effective Communication & Media Engagement
Get you writing. Understand the role of narratives in political and policy communication.
UNITS- U.01Basics of Writing
- U.02Understanding the Media Environment
- U.03Political and Policy Narratives
Strategic Studies and International Relations
The role of force, foreign policy, internal security, cyberspace, and nuclear policy in contemporary geopolitics.
UNITS- U.01Basics of Strategic Studies
- U.02Understanding Geopolitics
- U.03Tools of Statecraft (Force, Diplomacy, Intelligence)
- U.04National Security Challenges
- U.05Strategic Communication
- U.06High-Tech Geopolitics
- U.07India's Nuclear Doctrine
Introduction to Arthashastra
Introduces Kautilya's Arthashastra, an ancient statecraft treatise, and highlights its relevance to today's international relations and strategy.
UNITS- U.01Introduction to Kautilya's Arthashastra
- U.02Concept Cluster I (Saptanga Theory, Rajadharma)
- U.03Concept Cluster II (Rajamandala, Upayas)
- U.04Treaties and Alliances
Strategic Economics
National power has economic foundations. The relationship between economic strength, military power, and statecraft.
UNITS- U.01Origins and Military Power Dynamics
- U.02Instruments of Economic Power I & II
- U.03Economic-Military Power Dynamics
- U.04Currency and Balance of Payments
Application process
and fees
Eligibility
Individuals with an undergraduate degree in any field are welcome to apply. Work experience is preferred but not mandatory.
Scholarships
Limited merit and need-based scholarships are available. Early applicants have a significant advantage when scholarships are awarded.
Corporate sponsorship
Many participants attend with their employer's support. Write to us at dfa@takshashila.org.in if your organisation needs specifics.
More questions?
Have specific questions about eligibility, deferment, or schedule? See the full FAQs.
Faculty
Ambassador Latha Reddy
Former Deputy National Security Adviser of India
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Nitin Pai
Co-Founder and Director
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Lt General (Dr) Prakash Menon
Director of the Strategic Studies Programme
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Pranay Kotasthane
Deputy Director and Chairs HTG Programme
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Anupam Manur
Professor at the Takshashila Institution
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Dr Kajari Kamal
Adjunct Research Fellow
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Manoj Kewalramani
Fellow, China Studies at the Takshashila Institution
Read BioFrom the cohort
Apply for Cohort 44
EARLY-BIRD 29 MAR · DEADLINE 26 APR · STARTS 9 MAY 2026STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? READ THE FAQs