News: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has introduced the ‘SHAKTI Scholars: NCW Young Research Fellowship’ to invite students and young researchers to undertake policy-oriented research on issues related to women across India.
About ‘SHAKTI Scholars’ fellowship
- Launched by: National Commission for Women (NCW) to encourage research on women-centric issues in India.
- Aim: The fellowship focuses on supporting policy-oriented and multidisciplinary research by young scholars.
- Objective of the Fellowship
- The primary objective of the fellowship is to generate research-based insights that can contribute to effective policymaking related to women’s empowerment and protection.
- The programme seeks to strengthen academic engagement with contemporary challenges faced by women across the country.
- Areas of Research
- The fellowship supports research on women’s safety, dignity, and prevention of gender-based violence.
- It includes studies on legal rights of women and their access to justice mechanisms.
- Research may be conducted on cyber safety and the implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) framework.
- The programme also covers women’s leadership, political participation, health, nutrition, education, and skill development.
- It encourages research on economic empowerment, labour force participation, socio-cultural practices, and work-life balance.
- Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be Indian citizens between the ages of 21 and 30 years.
- Candidates must possess at least a graduation degree from a recognised institution.
- Preference will be given to candidates who are pursuing or have completed post-graduation or higher research.
- Independent researchers with proven research capability are also eligible to apply.
- Duration of the Fellowship: The duration of the SHAKTI Scholars fellowship is six months.
- Financial Assistance: Selected fellows will receive a research grant of ₹1 lakh to support their study.
- Selection Process
- Applications will be evaluated by an Expert Committee constituted by the NCW.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interaction as part of the selection process.
