New Delhi | Dec 22,2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
NCW Launches ‘SHAKTI Scholars’ Fellowship:
In a significant step towards strengthening evidence-based policymaking for women, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched ‘SHAKTI Scholars: NCW’s Young Research Fellowship’, a new initiative aimed at encouraging young scholars to undertake policy-oriented research on critical issues affecting women in India. Applications for the fellowship are open till October 31, according to an official announcement by the Commission.

The fellowship is designed to promote multidisciplinary research that can support informed decision-making and contribute to effective governance focused on women’s welfare, safety, and empowerment.
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About the SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship
The SHAKTI Scholars programme invites young students and researchers to explore contemporary challenges faced by women through structured academic research. The NCW stated that the initiative seeks to build a strong research ecosystem that connects academic inquiry with real-world policy outcomes.
Selected candidates will receive a research grant of ₹1 lakh to undertake a six-month research study, enabling them to work independently or under academic mentorship on approved topics.
Key Research Areas Covered
Under the fellowship, applicants can propose research projects in a wide range of women-centric policy domains, including:
• Women’s safety and dignity
• Gender-based violence
• Legal rights and access to justice
• Cyber safety and online harassment
• Women’s health and nutrition
• Economic empowerment and labour force participation
The NCW emphasised that the research outcomes are expected to provide practical policy insights that can help improve programmes and legal frameworks related to women.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship, applicants must:
• Be Indian citizens
• Be aged between 21 and 30 years
• Hold at least a graduate degree from a recognised institution
The fellowship is open to students and early-career researchers from diverse academic backgrounds, reflecting the Commission’s focus on interdisciplinary approaches.
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Application Process and Deadline
Interested candidates can submit their applications online through the prescribed NCW process. The last date for submission is October 31. Applicants are advised to carefully review the guidelines and ensure their research proposals align with the fellowship’s objectives.
Why the Fellowship Matters
By launching SHAKTI Scholars, the National Commission for Women aims to nurture young talent, encourage gender-focused academic research, and strengthen policy interventions through data-driven insights. The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The NCW noted that research findings from the fellowship could play a role in shaping future recommendations, advocacy initiatives, and reforms related to women’s rights in India.
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