GRT Research Fellowship

Empowering Young Minds for Climate Action

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 –