The National Commission for Women (NCW) has launched the 'SHAKTI Scholars: NCW's Young Thinkers Research Fellowship Program 2.0', inviting applications from young researchers and students to undertake policy-oriented studies on issues affecting women in India. The application window runs from 15 October to 30 October 2025, with selected fellows receiving a research grant of ₹1 lakh for a six-month study.

Who Can Apply

The fellowship is open to Indian citizens aged 21–30 years who hold at least a graduate degree from a recognised institution. Preference will be given to candidates who are pursuing or have completed postgraduate studies. Eligible independent researchers may also submit applications.

Applicants must send the prescribed application form, a 1,500–2,000-word research proposal, CV, academic certificates, proof of age and identity, and a recommendation letter (if applicable) in PDF format to shakti.ncw@gmail.com before the deadline.

Research Areas Covered

The fellowship is designed to promote multidisciplinary inquiry across a broad range of women-centric themes. These include women's leadership and political participation, health and nutrition, education, economic empowerment, legal rights, cyber safety, climate action, work-life balance, and gender-based violence, among others. The emphasis on policy-oriented research reflects the NCW's intent to convert academic findings into actionable recommendations for government and civil society.

NCW Chairperson at Workers' Nutrition Dialogue

Separately, on Thursday, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar participated in a 'Workers' Nutrition Dialogue' programme organised by the Delhi Commission for Women. The event was also attended by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Delhi Commission for Women Chairperson Lata Gupta, along with the Commission's members and officials.

At the event, Rahatkar distributed nutrition kits to workers referred to as 'Karmayogini sisters'. She later posted on social media platform X, stating: 'The women who empower the nation through their hard work also deserve equal attention to their health and nutrition. Every woman should have access to nutritious food, better healthcare facilities, and timely treatment, because a healthy woman forms the foundation of a healthy family and an empowered society.'

Rahatkar further noted: 'The government is running various schemes for the health, nutrition, and welfare of women and children, so that our sisters can become healthy, empowered, and self-reliant, contributing to the nation's progress.'

Significance and What's Next

The SHAKTI Scholars programme is part of a broader NCW effort to institutionalise evidence-based policymaking on women's issues by engaging the country's young academic talent. This is the second edition of the fellowship, indicating that the initiative has moved beyond a pilot. With the 30 October deadline approaching, eligible candidates have a narrow window to prepare and submit their proposals.