The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched the 'SHAKTI Scholars: NCW's Young Research Fellowship', inviting applications from young students and researchers for policy-oriented research on issues concerning women across India. The fellowship aims to promote multidisciplinary research on a wide array of subjects critical to women's well-being and empowerment.

The 'SHAKTI Scholars' fellowship encourages multidisciplinary research in areas such as women's safety and dignity, gender-based violence, legal rights and access to justice, and cyber safety. It will also promote research on the implementation of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) framework, women's leadership and political participation, health and nutrition, education and skill development, economic empowerment, labor force participation, socio-cultural practices, and work-life balance. The NCW's initiative seeks to connect academic research with practical governance, ensuring that policies addressing women's concerns are well-informed and effective.

The fellowship is open to Indian citizens aged between 21 and 30 years who hold at least a graduation degree from a recognized institution. According to the NCW, preference will be given to candidates pursuing or having completed post-graduation or higher research. Independent researchers with demonstrated research capacity may also apply.

Selected candidates will receive a research grant of ₹1 lakh to undertake a six-month research study. The NCW clarified that the funds would be released in phases, linked to the progress of the research work during the fellowship period.

Applications for the 'SHAKTI Scholars' fellowship can be submitted via email to NCW until December 31, up to 5.30 p.m. The Commission has stated that an Expert Committee constituted by the NCW will assess the applications, and shortlisted applicants will be invited for an online interaction as part of the selection process.

This initiative comes as the NCW launched a 24x7 helpline last month, 14490, to provide faster support for women in distress and urged citizens, community organizations, and educational institutions to disseminate the number widely. The 'SHAKTI Scholars' fellowship is a forward-looking initiative designed to harness the intellectual potential of young scholars and strengthen evidence-based policymaking on issues that directly affect women across the country.