The Gujarat State Institution for Transformation (GRIT), the strategic policy think tank for the Gujarat government, has officially opened its doors for research proposals. In a significant move to harness external expertise, GRIT has invited applications from individuals and institutions outside academia for its research support programme.
Application Window and Submission Process
According to an official statement released on Monday, the application portal is now live. The last date for submitting proposals is December 15, 2025. This provides a substantial window for potential applicants to develop comprehensive research plans. All interested parties must submit their applications exclusively through the online portal on GRIT's official website. This digital-first approach streamlines the process and ensures wider accessibility across the state and beyond.
Focus Areas for Research Proposals
GRIT has identified four critical thematic areas for research under this initiative. Proposals must align with one of these key sectors crucial for Gujarat's future growth:
- Sustainability: Transition to Net Zero
- Economic Development in Tribal Areas
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Agricultural Value Chain
- Development of the Service Sector in Gujarat
This focused approach ensures that the research directly contributes to the state's strategic policy priorities and long-term development goals.
Evaluation Criteria and Policy Impact
The selection process will be rigorous. Each received proposal will undergo a thorough evaluation based on a set of well-defined criteria. The primary factors for assessment include the relevance of the research topic to Gujarat's needs, the methodological accuracy and scientific robustness of the proposed study, and most importantly, its potential impact on state-level policy.
Evaluators will specifically look for alignment with the Gujarat government's current policy agenda. The quality of the research design, methodology, and planned analysis will be scrutinized. The ultimate goal is to fund research that can provide actionable insights, positively influencing both the formulation and implementation of policies in Gujarat.
This initiative by GRIT marks a proactive step in bridging the gap between ground-level research and governmental action. By inviting non-academic professionals and institutions, the think tank aims to bring diverse, practical perspectives to the table, fostering innovation that is directly applicable to the state's developmental challenges.
