Volunteer in India
The world's largest democracy, India is also one of the world's oldest civilizations. Its unique cultural heritage is everywhere in evidence. It is a predominately Hindu country, with social and religious structures that have survived centuries of outside influence.
India is also massively overpopulated (with over 1 billion people), and suffers from serious problems related to poverty and environmental degradation. Voluntary organizations play an important role in addressing these problems, and volunteers are always in demand. Placements are available in projects in various locations around India, including Delhi, Mumbai (Bombay), Ahmedabad, Patna (Bihar), Dehradun (Uttaranchal) and Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh).
Volunteer Abroad Program Overview — India
Arrival - Volunteer Service - Program Fees - Payment Schedule
Arrival and Orientation
Arriving at Delhi or Mumbai International Airport, you will be met by VIP-India's authorized transport agent and provided with overnight accommodation. If the project is in Delhi/Mumbai, arrival and orientation will be for two days, and the project will begin on the 3rd day (excluding holidays). Orientation will cover issues of Indian culture, its people and society as well as details about the project. It would also make you understand the support and assistance you would be receiving from day one. If proceeding to any other city for the project, overnight accommodation and general Orientation will be provided in Delhi/Mumbai. Orientation about the project and the local area will take place at the project site, and the project will begin on the 4th or 5th day after arrival.
Volunteer Service
As a volunteer you can stay for total of 7 - 12 weeks. During your volunteer service you will have your own room in a furnished rented/paying guest accommodation near the project site. All meals are included in the program fee. You'll be invited to take part in one organized weekend activity such as cooking classes on Indian cuisine, visits to places of local interest, and a cultural program with local artists. A half day city tour will also be offered.
VIP in India works with community organizations in four major areas.
- Teaching
- Social Welfare
- Conservation
- Media
Program Fees - 2008
| Length of Stay | Cost |
|---|---|
| Note: The published price is subject to change in case of major currency fluctuations. Contact your sending country. | |
| 7 weeks | US$1885 |
| 9 weeks | US$2035 |
| 12 weeks | US$2415 |
What is included?
- Application processing, interview and pre-departure information and support
- Orientation program on arrival
- Single room accommodation during volunteer placement
- All meals for the duration of the program
- Airport pick-up and transfer on arrival
- One night accommodation, if needed, on the day of arrival
- Transportation from Delhi or Mumbai to the project site
- One half-day city tour during the orientation week
- One weekend trip/recreational activities during the volunteer placement
- Donation to the host project
What's not included?
- Travel to and from India, passport and visa fees if any
- Health and accident insurance
- Any kind of personal expenses including international phone calls
Payment Schedule
A deposit of 20% of the total program fee is required with your application. It is non-refundable upon notification of acceptance and is applied to the total program fee.
The balance of the program fee is required 30 days prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation after acceptance and prior to placement confirmation - the deposit is forfeited
- Cancellation after confirmation of placement - 50% of the program fee is forfeited
- No Show or Early Departure from Program - 100% of the program fee is forfeited.
