SHAKTI scholars: NCW fellowship aims to promote research on women’s issues

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced a new fellowship program, “SHAKTI Scholars: NCW Young Research Fellowship,” aimed at encouraging young researchers to study challenges faced by women in India and propose policy-driven solutions.

The initiative seeks to strengthen evidence-based policymaking while driving meaningful social change for women across the country.

It is designed to support fresh and innovative research that addresses women-centric issues and bridges the gap between research, policy formulation, and implementation.

By engaging young scholars, the NCW hopes to introduce new perspectives on both longstanding and emerging challenges affecting women’s safety, rights, and participation in society.

The fellowship will fund research on a wide array of themes, including women’s safety and dignity, gender-based violence, access to legal rights and justice, cybersecurity concerns, and effective implementation of the POSH framework in workplaces.

Other focus areas include women’s leadership and political participation, health and nutrition, education and skill development, economic empowerment, workforce participation, socio-cultural traditions, and work-life balance.

Eligible candidates must be Indian citizens aged 21 to 30 years and have completed at least a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.

Preference will be given to those pursuing or holding postgraduate or higher research degrees, though independent researchers with substantial experience are also eligible.

The NCW has emphasized that applicants from diverse academic backgrounds may apply, provided their proposals focus on women-related issues.

Selected fellows will receive a grant of ₹1 lakh for a six-month research period, disbursed in installments linked to research progress.

The fellowship also offers recognition and the opportunity to contribute directly to policy-oriented research at the national level.

Applications must be submitted via email to the NCW by 5:30 pm on Dec 31. An expert committee will evaluate submissions, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.

Alongside the fellowship, the NCW has introduced a 24x7 helpline, 14490, to provide immediate assistance to women in distress.

The commission has urged citizens, social organizations, and educational institutions to raise awareness about the service, reinforcing its commitment to women’s safety and empowerment.