SHAKTI Scholars – NCW Young Research Fellowship:

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched ‘SHAKTI Scholars’ – NCW Young Research Fellowship to promote policy-oriented research on women-centric issues.
- SHAKTI Scholars is a six-month, grant-based research fellowship designed to support young scholars and independent researchers in undertaking policy-relevant, multidisciplinary research on issues affecting women in India.
- Launched by: National Commission for Women (NCW)
- Aim:
- Encourage evidence-based research on women-centric challenges.
- Build a pipeline of young researchers contributing to gender-responsive governance.
- Support research that can inform laws, schemes, and institutional reforms.
- Eligibility criteria:
- Nationality: Indian citizens only
- Age: 21 to 30 years
- Minimum qualification: Graduation from a recognised institution
- Preference:Candidates pursuing or having completed post-graduation, M.Phil., or PhD
- Disciplines such as Gender Studies, Law, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Economics, Health, Technology, Development Studies, etc.
- Key features:
- Research grant – ₹1 lakh: The fellowship provides financial support to cover data collection, fieldwork, analysis, and documentation costs.
- Duration – 6 months: A six-month timeframe balances rigorous research with timely policy relevance and feasibility.
- Phased fund release: Grants are disbursed in stages, ensuring accountability and progress-linked research execution.


