'SHAKTI' Scholars Fellowship

Why in News?

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has started a new fellowship, 'SHAKTI' Scholars Fellowship.

• SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship is an NCW initiative providing a 6-month research grant to young Indian researchers for policy-oriented studies on critical issues affecting women.
• Eligibility - Open to Indian citizens aged 21–30 years with at least a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
• Preference to those pursuing or holding postgraduate/higher research qualifications or having strong research experience.
• Grant - Fellowship offers Rs 1 lakh grant.
• Selection Process - Applications are evaluated by an expert committee, and shortlisted candidates are interviewed online as part of the selection.
• Research Areas
  • Women’s safety and dignity
  • Gender-based violence
  • Legal rights and access to justice
  • Cyber safety
  • Implementation of the POSH framework
  • Women’s leadership and political participation
  • Health, nutrition, education, and skill development
  • Economic empowerment and labour participation
  • Socio-cultural practices and work–life balance.
• Helpline - Additionally, last month, the NCW launched a 24x7 helpline number, 14490, to provide immediate assistance to women in distress.
• The commission appealed to citizens, social organizations and educational institutions to spread awareness about this helpline number.

Reference

NDTV | 'SHAKTI' Scholars Fellowship