Honouring the Legacy of Late Shri G.R. Thengdi
The GRT Research Fellowship is inspired by the pioneering vision of Late Shri G.R. Thengdi, a champion of sustainable development, grassroots development and a pillar of wisdom for Raah Foundation. This fellowship carries forward his legacy by fostering a new generation of researchers, thinkers and changemakers dedicated to tackling the pressing challenges of climate change, conservation and gender equity.
A Unique Two-Level Selection Process
The GRT Research Fellowship adopts a dual-tiered selection process to create a dynamic and well-rounded research team:
- Local Fellows – University students from Maharashtra, with proficiency in Marathi, are selected for their on-ground accessibility to intervention areas and cultural understanding of indigenous communities. Their familiarity with the region ensures seamless field research, data collection and direct community engagement.
- National Fellows – University students from across India bring expertise in secondary research, technical skills and academic writing in English. These fellows offer a broader perspective on climate discourse, policy analysis and global frameworks while enhancing the analytical depth of the research.
Together, these two groups will collaborate closely, learning from each other’s strengths—local fellows gain exposure to high-level research methodologies, while national fellows develop a deeper understanding of grassroots realities. This partnership ensures a balanced, interdisciplinary approach to the fellowship’s research themes.
What You Get: A Transformative Research Experience
The GRT Research Fellowship adopts a dual-tiered selection process to create a dynamic and well-rounded research team:
Real-World Research Exposure
- Conduct primary and secondary research on climate resilience, gender, and sustainability.
- Engage in on-ground data collection, interviews, and fieldwork in the Northern Western Ghats.
Skill Development & Mentorship
- Learn research methodologies, data analysis, and academic writing.
- Work closely with policy experts, conservationists, and development professionals.
- Gain experience in collaborative, interdisciplinary research.
Networking & Career Growth
- Connect with like-minded peers, scholars and practitioners in the field.
- Enhance your resume and research portfolio for further studies or careers in climate policy, conservation and social impact sectors.
Stipend & Field Visits
- Fellows will receive a stipend to support their research work.
- A field visit to the intervention area will allow all fellows to witness first-hand the challenges and solutions being studied.
Together, these two groups will collaborate closely, learning from each other’s strengths—local fellows gain exposure to high-level research methodologies, while national fellows develop a deeper understanding of grassroots realities. This partnership ensures a balanced, interdisciplinary approach to the fellowship’s research themes.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The GRT Research Fellowship is more than just a learning opportunity – it is a chance to make a real impact. If you are passionate about climate change, gender equity and indigenous knowledge systems, this fellowship will equip you with the skills and insights to drive change.
Are you ready to be part of the next generation of climate leaders and researchers?
Apply Now and begin your journey toward meaningful research and action!
Local Fellows –
National Fellows –
1.What is the GRT Research Fellowship?
The GRT Research Fellowship is a research-based program that provides university students with the opportunity to engage in climate change, gender equity and indigenous knowledge research. It offers hands-on research experience, mentorship and field exposure, with a focus on the Northern Western Ghats.
2. Who can apply for the fellowship?
The fellowship is open to university students across India. Selection occurs at two levels:
- Local Fellows (Maharashtra-based students) – Must have proficiency in Marathi and be willing to engage in on-ground data collection and fieldwork.
- National Fellows (Students from across India) – Should have strong secondary research skills, technical expertise, and academic writing proficiency in English.
3. What is the size of the cohort?
A total of 4 fellows will be selected – 2 Local Fellows and 2 National Fellows.
4. What is the selection process like?
The selection process involves:
- Online Application – Submission of a statement of purpose, academic background, and relevant research experience.
- Interview – Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed to assess their research interests, skills, and commitment.
4. What are the key benefits of this fellowship?
- Hands-on research experience in climate resilience, conservation and gender studies.
- Mentorship from experts in policy, sustainability and academia.
- Stipend support for research work.
- Field visit to the intervention area to understand grassroots realities.
- Collaboration between local and national fellows for interdisciplinary learning.
- Opportunities to publish research and present findings in policy discussions.
5. Do I need prior research experience to apply?
No, prior research experience is not mandatory but preferred. However, a strong interest in climate, conservation and gender studies and a willingness to learn are essential.
6. Is this a paid fellowship?
Yes, selected fellows will receive a stipend to support their research work.
7. What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship runs for a period of two months, with structured research phases, mentorship and field visits.
8. What kind of research work will I be doing?
Fellows will engage in:
- Primary research – Conducting interviews, field surveys and data collection.
- Secondary research – Reviewing academic papers, policy documents and global case studies.
- Collaborative research – Working alongside other fellows to develop insights and recommendations.
9. Do I need to be fluent in Marathi?
- Local Fellows must be fluent in Marathi for effective communication with indigenous communities.
- National Fellows are not required to know Marathi but should have strong English research and writing skills.
10. Will I need to travel for the fellowship?
Yes, all selected fellows will participate in a field visit to the intervention area for a period of two weeks in the Northern Western Ghats to gain on-ground insights.
11. How can I apply?
Applications can be submitted through these links. The deadline for applications is 11:59 PM IST on 10th April, 2025.
Application Link for Local Fellows -
Application Link for National Fellows -
12. Who can I contact for more information?
For any queries, please email us at sunidhi@raahfoundation.org or visit our website.