At a time when women’s safety, rights, and participation in public life remain central to India’s development agenda, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has introduced a timely and forward-looking initiative—‘SHAKTI Scholars: NCW’s Young Research Fellowship’. Designed to harness the intellectual potential of young scholars, the programme seeks to strengthen evidence-based policymaking on issues that directly affect women across the country.
More than a research grant, SHAKTI Scholars represents an effort to connect academic inquiry with governance, ensuring that policies addressing women’s concerns are informed by data, ground realities, and innovative thinking.
Encouraging Research with Real-World Impact
The fellowship invites young students and researchers aged 21 to 30 years to undertake policy-oriented, multidisciplinary research on women-centric themes. Applicants must be Indian citizens with at least a graduate degree from a recognised institution, while preference is given to those pursuing or holding postgraduate qualifications or higher research experience. Independent researchers with proven capacity are also encouraged to apply.
Selected fellows will receive a research grant of ₹1 lakh to complete a six-month research project, with funding disbursed in phases linked to progress. Applications are evaluated by an Expert Committee, ensuring academic rigour and relevance.
Focus Areas: Addressing Contemporary Challenges
The SHAKTI Scholars programme covers a wide and evolving range of themes that reflect the complex realities faced by women today. These include:
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Women’s safety and dignity
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Gender-based violence and cyber safety
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Legal rights and access to justice
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Implementation of the POSH framework
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Health, nutrition, and mental well-being
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Education, skills, and workforce participation
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Economic empowerment and entrepreneurship
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Women’s leadership, political participation, and work–life balance
By encouraging research across these domains, NCW aims to promote a deeper understanding of both systemic challenges and emerging risks, particularly in a rapidly digitising and urbanising society.
Objectives: Bridging Research and Policy
One of the core objectives of SHAKTI Scholars is to bridge the gap between research and policymaking. While laws and welfare schemes for women exist, their effectiveness often depends on implementation, awareness, and adaptability to changing social contexts.
The fellowship seeks to:
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Generate policy-relevant insights grounded in empirical research
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Encourage multidisciplinary approaches to women’s issues
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Strengthen the role of young researchers in governance discourse
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Support solutions that are practical, inclusive, and scalable
By investing in youth-led research, NCW is cultivating a pipeline of informed thinkers who can contribute to long-term institutional reform.
Why the Fellowship Matters
Women’s issues cannot be addressed through legislation alone. They require continuous evaluation, social understanding, and policy innovation. The SHAKTI Scholars fellowship creates a structured platform for young researchers to study these issues critically and propose actionable recommendations.
For participants, the programme offers exposure to national-level institutions, mentorship, and the opportunity to see research translated into policy discussions. For policymakers, it provides access to fresh perspectives and updated evidence that can improve programme design and delivery.
Building Awareness and Strengthening Support Systems
The launch of SHAKTI Scholars aligns with NCW’s broader efforts to strengthen women’s support mechanisms, including the recent introduction of a 24×7 women’s helpline (14490). Together, these initiatives reflect a holistic approach—combining immediate assistance with long-term policy solutions.
NCW has also urged educational institutions, civil society organisations, and youth networks to spread awareness about the fellowship, ensuring wider participation from diverse social and regional backgrounds.
Looking Ahead
The SHAKTI Scholars fellowship underscores a critical truth: sustainable progress in gender equality depends on informed decision-making and inclusive dialogue. By empowering young researchers to engage deeply with women’s issues, NCW is not only expanding the knowledge base but also shaping the future of women-centric governance in India.
As the country continues to navigate social change and economic transformation, initiatives like SHAKTI Scholars highlight the power of research to influence policy, amplify women’s voices, and build a more just and equitable society.