NCW Launches SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship to Support Policy Research on Women’s Issues

New Delhi. : The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched a new national research initiative titled “SHAKTI Scholars: NCW Young Research Fellowship” to promote policy-oriented studies addressing key challenges faced by women in India.

The six-month fellowship programme aims to encourage young Indian researchers to develop evidence-based solutions that can contribute to gender equality and strengthen women-focused policymaking at the national level.

According to the commission, the fellowship is designed to support innovative and solution-driven research ideas that focus on women-centric concerns while helping bridge the gap between academic research, policy formulation, and real-world implementation.

Focus Areas of Research

The SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship will support research across a wide range of themes related to women’s welfare and empowerment. Key focus areas include women’s safety and dignity, gender-based violence, access to legal rights and justice, cybersecurity issues affecting women, and effective implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) framework in workplaces.

Additional research themes include women’s leadership and political participation, health and nutrition, education and skill development, economic empowerment, women’s participation in the workforce, socio-cultural practices, and work-life balance.

By engaging young scholars, the commission aims to bring fresh perspectives to both long-standing and emerging challenges affecting women’s rights, safety, and participation in society.

Eligibility Criteria

• Candidates applying for the fellowship must meet the following requirements:
• Must be an Indian citizen
• Age between 21 and 30 years
• Must have completed at least a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution
• Preference will be given to applicants pursuing or holding postgraduate or higher research degrees

Independent researchers with relevant research experience are also eligible to apply. The NCW has clarified that applicants from diverse academic backgrounds can apply, provided their research proposal focuses on women-related issues.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a total grant of ₹1 lakh for the six-month research period. The fellowship amount will be released in instalments based on research milestones and progress.

Apart from financial support, fellows will gain an opportunity to contribute directly to national-level policy research and receive recognition for their work in the field of women’s empowerment.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit their applications via email to the National Commission for Women. All applications must reach the commission by 5:30 pm on December 31.

Applications will be reviewed by an expert committee, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to appear for an online interview. Applicants are advised to carefully read the official notification for detailed guidelines and submission requirements.

NCW 24x7 Helpline for Women

In addition to launching the SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship, the NCW has also operationalised a 24x7 national helpline number, 14490, to provide immediate assistance to women in distress.

The commission has appealed to citizens, educational institutions, and social organisations to actively spread awareness about the helpline, reinforcing its commitment to women’s safety, rights, and empowerment across the country.

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