Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process, We invite applications from early-career scholars in India working on queer and feminist pedagogies who are eager to advance their academic research and engage with critical interdisciplinary perspectives. This fellowship is designed to support scholars committed to exploring innovative approaches in these fields and strengthening their scholarly practice.
The program will select two fellows through a structured selection process for a duration of five months (August to December 2026). In its 2026 edition, TAARIF will be conducted entirely online, ensuring wider accessibility and continuous engagement across locations.
During the fellowship period, selected participants will take part in mentoring workshops, supervision sessions, and regular check-in meetings with assigned mentors. They will also engage in ongoing consultations with the CSGS team, receiving academic guidance and support aimed at enhancing their research skills and outputs.
The fellowship will conclude with the development of a publishable research paper, with fellows actively exploring suitable academic publication avenues throughout the program, ensuring their work contributes meaningfully to scholarly discourse.
If you’re interested in this prestigious fellowship program, we encourage you to read the article carefully and follow the application guidelines closely. Make sure to review all eligibility criteria and submit your application within the specified timeline.
Last Date of Application: 10th July 2026
BROAD AIMS for Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process
- To create a space for Indian early-career queer scholarship
- To examine arts and policy, law and society, through queer methods and methodologies
- To strengthen research and writing skills for early-career scholars
- To publish cutting-edge research in transnational academic journals
Fellowship Structure for Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process
The fellowship is designed as a structured five-month research programme, divided into two distinct phases to support both fieldwork and academic writing.
- A) First Three Months – Research and Concept Development
During the initial phase, fellows will conduct primary research based on the proposal submitted at the time of application. They will actively gather data, refine their ideas, and build the conceptual framework of their study. Fellows will also present their early findings, incorporate feedback, and strengthen the theoretical direction of their work. In addition, they will complete mandatory ethics training and be formally introduced to their assigned mentors and relevant subject experts.
- B) Last Two Months – Writing and Publication Preparation
In the final phase, fellows will focus on producing a 6,000-word publishable research paper. This period will be dedicated to critically analysing findings, refining arguments, and situating the research within broader debates in queer knowledge production. Fellows will also participate in writing and publication workshops and shortlist suitable peer-reviewed journals for submission.
Mentorship for Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process
The fellowship provides continuous academic guidance primarily through the CSGS team, including the CSGS Director and Postdoctoral Fellow. Fellows will receive structured feedback and research support throughout the programme.
In addition, the Centre will organise fortnightly interactive sessions with scholars and activists from relevant disciplines, offering diverse perspectives and specialised insights into each fellow’s research area.
While strong mentorship is built into the programme, fellows are expected to work in a self-directed and independent manner. This includes designing and managing their research project, completing both primary and secondary research within timelines, and delivering the final outputs as required.
Stipend for Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process
Each fellow will receive an all-inclusive stipend of INR 50,000 per month (tax inclusive) for the entire five-month duration, subject to satisfactory progress of work. In addition, a fieldwork allowance of up to INR 20,000 will also be provided.
The detailed timeline and work schedule will be mutually agreed upon by the fellows and the CSGS team before the fellowship begins.
Eligibility Criteria for Transformative Arts and Research Initiatives Fellowship TAARIF 2026 Applications Process
The fellowship is open to early-career Indian scholars working on queer and feminist issues.
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, or have at least two years of professional/research experience in a related field.
- Prior research experience is preferred but not mandatory.
- Must demonstrate the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.
- Must possess strong English writing and communication skills (final research output will be in English).
- Must have access to a computer and stable internet connection for remote research work.
- Preference will be given to candidates who are not engaged in full-time employment. However, full-time employed applicants must clearly justify their ability to balance fellowship commitments.
Selection will be based on the quality of the research proposal, relevant experience, commitment to the fellowship, and ability to produce high-quality academic output. Applicants from Dalit, Adivasi, disabled, and other marginalised communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to apply?
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants are required to submit a set of documents that collectively demonstrate their academic background, research capability, and suitability for the fellowship.
A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) must be provided, clearly outlining relevant academic achievements, research experience, and/or professional work history.
Applicants must also submit a short-term research proposal (1000–1200 words). While the proposal is not expected to be fully finalized at the application stage, it should clearly present a well-defined research idea that can be completed within the five-month fellowship duration. Fieldwork or primary data collection should not exceed one month. Applicants are encouraged to incorporate creative datasets or reuse existing data wherever appropriate.
The research proposal must follow a structured format and include the following components:
- A tentative title of the research
- A background and literature review
- Identification of a research gap and/or innovative contribution
- Methodology and theoretical framework
- Clearly defined research questions
- Potential future applications or significance of the research
- A tentative timeline for completion
- Names of at least three peer-reviewed academic journals where the work may be submitted after completion
- Names of three potential external academic mentors, listed in order of preference (mentors may be based in India or abroad and are not restricted to Ashoka University)
Applicants are invited to submit proposals aligned with, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Queer arts and aesthetics
- Queer literature and life-writing
- Transhumanism and technology
- Decolonizing queer perspectives
- Homonationalism and sexual citizenship
- Queer cartographies and geographies
- Queer digital humanities
In addition, applicants must submit a writing sample of up to 3000 words. Shorter pieces are also acceptable. The sample should demonstrate clarity, coherence, and persuasive academic or analytical writing. Acceptable formats include academic essays, term papers, op-eds, journalistic essays, or reflective writing on a relevant theme.
A single academic reference is also required to support the applicant’s ability to conduct independent research. This reference must be sent directly by the referee to csgs@ashoka.edu.in with the subject line “Reference for + Applicant Name” by 10 July 2026, 11:59 pm. References submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
All remaining application materials must be compiled into a single PDF file and emailed to csgs@ashoka.edu.in by the application deadline of 10 July 2026, 11:59 pm.
The PDF file must be named in the format: “<your name>_taarif.pdf”, and the email subject line must read: “Application to TAARIF – <your name>.”
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
For any queries or additional information, applicants may contact csgs@ashoka.edu.in
Learn more about the Fellowship Program
FAQs – TAARIF Fellowship (Queer & Feminist Pedagogies)
-
Who can apply for the TAARIF Fellowship?
Early-career Indian scholars working on queer and feminist issues can apply. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline or at least 2 years of relevant work/research experience.
-
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship runs for five months (August to December 2026) and is conducted entirely online.
-
What kind of research output is expected?
Fellows are expected to produce a 6,000-word publishable research paper, along with participation in workshops, mentoring sessions, and academic writing support activities.
-
What financial support is provided under the fellowship?
Each fellow will receive a monthly stipend of INR 50,000 (tax inclusive) for five months, along with a fieldwork allowance of up to INR 20,000, subject to satisfactory progress.
-
What is the selection criteria for the fellowship?
Selection is based on the quality of the research proposal, academic/research background, commitment to the fellowship, and ability to complete the required output. Preference is also given to applicants from marginalised communities, including Dalit, Adivasi, and disabled scholars.
No more Google search, join our Whats App Channel and get alerts as soon as we publish a post.
Hey, STEAL our Best Premium Content For Absolutely Free, Check Out the Links below
HOPE these will add value to your existing skills and knowledge.
Our information bears no cost (it’s absolutely FREE), don’t let valuable information slip away.
Join our community of avid readers who are always in the know. Subscribe to our website; stay connected and engaged with the latest news, trends, and developments by subscribing today.
(PUSH the bell ICON)
Leverage the power of knowledge to propel your organization to new heights. Don’t miss out – explore our content
- Latest Funds for NGOs,
- NGO Jobs
- Resources (Helpful Guides and Courses)
- Premium Resources
- NGO related articles
NGO Grants, NGO Jobs, NGO Resources & Nonprofit Fellowships – Empowering Your Mission (ngoscope.com)
Sharing is appreciated
