Application Deadline:
15 December 2026
About Organisation
Rukhmabai Initiatives is a platform that highlights women’s experiences and contributions in science, technology and related fields. Through its grants and storytelling programmes, the organisation seeks to amplify compelling stories about Indian women in STEM and make their journeys more visible to wider audiences. Its grants support science writers and journalists who can communicate complex scientific work through engaging, accessible storytelling. The initiative connects science, gender and journalism by commissioning profiles and feature stories about women making a difference through scientific and technological work. The sixth edition continues this focus by supporting three writers to produce stories about contemporary Indian women in STEM.
About the Grant
Rukhmabai Grants Edition 6 provides three grants of ₹40,000 each to women science writers or journalists in India. Each selected grantee will produce three stories consisting of two profiles and one feature about contemporary Indian women working in STEM. The programme aims to highlight women whose scientific journeys, achievements and challenges can inspire readers and make STEM more accessible. Selected grantees will also participate in editorial activities and may be invited to a Story Spotlight conversation. Stories will be published under a Creative Commons licence and may be offered to partner outlets for republication with appropriate credit.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must be women science writers or journalists who are Indian citizens aged over 18. They should have a strong interest in STEM, gender and the ways these subjects intersect. Applicants should be comfortable developing compelling stories about women in science and technology and should demonstrate relevant writing ability through two or three previous writing samples. Proposed stories should focus on Indian women in STEM whose professional journeys, achievements or experiences can offer meaningful and engaging narratives. Applicants must also confirm that the women they propose to profile agree to be interviewed and photographed.
How to Apply?
Applicants should submit their name, email address, city, short biography, two or three writing samples and confirmation of eligibility. They must also submit pitches for three proposed stories: two profiles and one feature, each approximately 150–200 words. Applicants should explain why they want to tell these stories and indicate whether they can participate in a short online Story Spotlight conversation if selected.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 15 December 2026.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
