Background
In a world marked by deepening divides, polarised politics, and protracted conflicts, the exchange of ideas and the cultivation of personal and professional relationships offer a vital source of hope. Publishing plays a crucial role in sustaining this exchange by disseminating knowledge and fostering a more humane, empathetic, and connected world.
The India–UK Publishing Fellowship brings together independent publishers from India and the UK to foster a more inclusive, creative, and interconnected publishing ecosystem.
Led by the British Council and Jaipur BookMark, India’s premier platform for publishers, held alongside the Jaipur Literature Festival, the fellowship enables independent publishers to exchange knowledge, build cross-cultural relationships, and develop collaborations across the publishing ecosystems of both countries.
Building on shared linguistic connections and long histories of printing and publishing, the fellowship seeks to strengthen adaptability in the face of a rapidly evolving industry while nurturing spaces where freedom of expression, fresh ideas, and innovative publishing practices can flourish.
About the Opportunity
Through an open-call application process, the India–UK Publishing Fellowship offers two independent publishers, one from India and one from the UK, an opportunity for professional development through international exchange, industry connections, and publishing collaborations. The Fellowship supports participants in exploring rights acquisition and sales, while championing literature in translation.
A joint initiative of Jaipur BookMark (JBM) and the British Council, the Fellowship will bring the two selected Fellows together at Jaipur BookMark 2027 (14–18 January) and the London Book Fair 2027 (16–18 March) for a curated programme of industry networking, knowledge exchange, and professional development.
The India-UK Publishing Fellowship aims to:
- Support international exchange between independent publishers in India and the UK.
- Strengthen the ecosystem for literature in translation and encourage the exchange of diverse literary voices.
- Build professional capacity through curated industry exposure, mentorship, and networking.
- Encourage innovative and inclusive publishing practices, with a focus on diverse representation.
- Promote cross-cultural dialogue through public and industry engagement.
What our previous Fellowship Holders have to say:
Harriet Hirshman of Deadink Books, India-UK Fellow, 2026
“I had a brilliant time and left feeling immensely motivated and invigorated from the experience... I've not only come away with new knowledge about the Indian publishing industry, but I feel like I have a plethora of new insights about publishing in general.“
Ruby Hembrom of adivaani , India-UK Fellow, 2026
“The International Publishing Fellowship 2025–26 was deeply affirming in ways that extended far beyond professional networking or industry exposure... It anchored me with the commitment that publishing is still a space of imagination, experimentation, and solidarity. Engaging with, and listening to editors, publishers, translators, illustrators, and writers, across the world brought a renewed sense of possibility to the work I do.“
What the Fellowship Offers
The two selected Fellows will receive:
- Return economy airfare from your home city to Jaipur and London.
- Visa fee reimbursement (on submission of receipts).
- Accommodation for 4–5 nights in each city (as per contract).
- Per diem (London); on-site meals at Jaipur BookMark.
- Access passes to:
- Jaipur BookMark and Jaipur Literature Festival (including cultural evenings, sessions, and networking)
- London Book Fair (bespoke meetings and industry seminars)
- Curated introductions, visibility opportunities, and potential participation in panel sessions.
Please note: Travel insurance, local airport transfers in their country of residence, and personal expenses must be covered by the Fellows. Visa and per diem expenses will be reimbursed upon submission of receipts.
At Jaipur BookMark
Jaipur BookMark offers a curated programme of panel discussions, interviews with industry veterans, and roundtables exploring various aspects of publishing in India and around the world. It provides a platform for networking and engagement with publishers, translators, booksellers, literary agents, authors, and other publishing professionals. The JBM also provides opportunities for publishers to explore the buying and selling of publishing rights.
As part of the Jaipur programme:
- Fellows will participate in a dedicated session at Jaipur BookMark highlighting cross-cultural publishing, translation, and potential areas of collaboration between India and the UK.
- Fellows are encouraged to connect and collaborate in advance of the Festival to identify common goals and opportunities for mutual learning.
- Fellows will be expected to be available for press interactions, coordinated and supported by the British Council and Jaipur BookMark.
Highlights
- Fellows will experience the world-renowned Jaipur Literature Festival, with access to Jaipur BookMark sessions, roundtables, and networking opportunities.
- As speakers, Fellows will have access to the Speaker’s Lounge, thMusic Stage, and exclusive cultural evenings exclusive cultural evenings held during the Festival.
- For the latest programme updates, please visit the Jaipur BookMark website and the Jaipur Literature Festival website.
At London Book Fair
The UK leg of the programme includes a curated visit to the London Book Fair, a global marketplace for the sale and distribution of print, audio, television, film, and digital content. As a B2B fair, it is one of the most important platforms for the international publishing industry to do business and network, and welcomes 25,000 visitors each year.
As part of the London programme:
- Fellows will participate in curated meetings, industry networking events, and seminars relevant to their publishing interests.
- There may be an opportunity to join a panel discussion (details to be confirmed closer to the Fair).
- Fellows are expected to pursue additional professional connections aligned with their interests or on behalf of their publishing house.
Highlights
- Experience the London Book Fair, one of the world’s leading trade events for global publishing and rights exchange.
- Explore London’s vibrant publishing ecosystem and engage with a diverse community of global literary professionals.
Who can apply?
The India-UK Publishing Fellowship welcomes applications from independent publishers in India and the UK who:
- Work in English and/or Indian language(s).
- Have five or more years of experience as a publishing professional.
- Are employed by or closely affiliated with independent publishing houses (including freelancers in key roles), but not literary agents, booksellers, translators, or employees of publishing conglomerates.
- Focus on publishing translations and new voices.
- Demonstrate a desire to build connections between the publishing industries of India and the UK, particularly in the field of literature in translation.
- Demonstrate an interest in meeting a range of publishers attending Jaipur BookMark and the London Book Fair.
- Have the ability to commission new titles within their publishing house.
- Are comfortable engaging with new people and professional networks.
- Demonstrate a clear editorial vision and a passion for publishing meaningful work.
- Are open to innovation, including through technology, and have a strong understanding of their target readership and market.
We especially encourage applications from:
- Publishers working in under-represented languages or regions.
- Publishers who have not previously participated in international fellowships.
- Publishers from marginalised communities.
Click the 'Apply Now' button to access the application form. The application process will close on 31st October 2026.
Selection Process and Criteria:
The Fellows will be selected by a panel from Jaipur BookMark and the British Council, based on:
- Relevance and strength of their publishing list.
- Demonstrated interest in India-UK collaboration and translation.
- Commitment to publishing new work in translation.
- The capacity to benefit professionally from the experience
- Alignment with the aims of the programme.
- Preference for publishers without prior similar international opportunities.
Applicants will be shortlisted based on their Application Form. This may be followed by an online or phone interview. Final selections will be confirmed via email by 20th November 2026.
Selected Fellows are expected to:
- Actively engage with both legs of the programme, including curated meetings, sessions, and networking opportunities.
- Participate in a dedicated session at Jaipur BookMark and the London Book Fair, contributing to discussions on international publishing and translation.
- Build a collaborative relationship with their co-Fellow and explore opportunities for future exchange.
- Be available for press interviews, social media engagement, and promotional content, as coordinated by Jaipur BookMark and the British Council.
- Submit a short reflective report or blog post within one month of completing the fellowship, sharing key learnings, insights, and ideas for future collaboration.
- Be open to contributing to future peer-learning initiatives and opportunities for continued exchange beyond the two festivals.
Timeline
| Date |
Activity |
| Applications open |
8th September 2026 |
| Deadline to apply |
31st October 2026 |
| Fellows announced |
20th November 2026 |
| Contracting and travel arrangements |
November-December 2026 |
| Jaipur BookMark |
14th–18th January 2027 |
| London Book Fair |
16th–18th March 2027 |
| Post-fellowship reporting |
April-May 2027 |
FAQs
We are defining independent publishers as publishers and imprints that are not part of large conglomerates or multinational corporations. We would encourage applications from indies that are developing eclectic lists in different languages and experimenting with form and content.
In this case, publishing professionals include editorial, marketing, and rights professionals working within independent publishing houses. We are not accepting applications from literary agents, scouts, booksellers, designers, or translators for this call.
Freelancers may apply for this opportunity if they do a large amount of work in an editorial, marketing, or rights role with an independent publisher. Please be sure to give details of this work and the nature of your relationship with the independent publisher clearly in your application. Freelancers with a broader portfolio of work would not be eligible for this call, as we are looking to build the capacity of independent publishers.
Working knowledge of English is preferable. Participation in both the Jaipur and London programmes, including meetings and public discussions will require a basic knowledge of English. However, we will do our best to provide assistance through on the spot translation for candidates as needed.
Yes, but only one Fellow per country will be selected. If multiple individuals from one organisation apply, only one may be shortlisted.
You don’t need a valid passport to apply, but you must be able to secure one (and the necessary visas) within the timeframe if selected.
Visa application support letters will be provided, and visa fees will be reimbursed upon submission of receipts.
There is no formal age restriction, but applicants should have between 5 or more years of professional experience in publishing.
Fellows must cover their travel insurance, personal expenses, and local transport to and from the airport in their home country.All other major costs, including airfare, visa fees, accommodation, and access passes, will be covered.
