The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched the ‘SHAKTI Scholars’ fellowship programme to encourage young researchers to undertake studies on women-centric policy issues. The initiative was unveiled in New Delhi with the objective of fostering evidence-based research that can inform and strengthen policymaking for women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Officials stated that the fellowship will provide opportunities for postgraduate and doctoral students, as well as early-career researchers, to engage in projects addressing critical areas such as women’s safety, health, education, economic participation, and legal rights. Selected fellows will receive mentorship, financial support, and access to NCW’s institutional resources to carry out their research.
NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma emphasized that the fellowship reflects the Commission’s commitment to promoting academic engagement with real-world challenges faced by women. She noted that the programme aims to bridge the gap between research and policy by generating actionable insights that can guide government interventions and advocacy efforts.
The ‘SHAKTI Scholars’ fellowship is expected to create a network of young scholars dedicated to advancing women-centric policies and contributing to India’s broader agenda of inclusive growth and social justice. Applications for the fellowship will be invited through NCW’s official channels, with a structured selection process to identify promising candidates.
With this initiative, the NCW seeks to empower the next generation of researchers to play a pivotal role in shaping progressive policies and driving meaningful change in the lives of women across the country.
