International Women’s Day: Shakuntala Grants launched to back women researchers and STEM education

Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based planetary intelligence company on the occasion of International Women’s Day, has announced the launch of Shakuntala Grants, a programme supporting women researchers studying our planet while opening pathways for the next generation to discover science.

In partnership with Escape Velocity Grants, Pixxel will provide micro-grants for women researchers working on projects related to climate resilience and environment.

“These small, timely grants enable fieldwork, pilot studies, data collection, equipment purchases, or exploratory research that might otherwise remain unfunded, particularly for independent researchers and early-career practitioners working close to the ground,” Pixxel said.

Pixxel is also partnering with Saare Tare Zameen Par Trust, a non-profit recognised by Indian Space Research Organisation as an official Space Tutor, to advance STEM learning opportunities for students through its flagship Spark of Curiosity programme, which has reached over 7 million government school students across India.

The initiative focuses on immersive, hands-on science education through activities such as science kits, digital planetarium shows, and interactive learning modules designed to build curiosity and conceptual understanding among girls in government schools. This will be implemented at GMPGS Devanahalli Middle School, helping extend experiential STEM learning for girls in the region.

“The future of science and technology can only be truly inclusive if women shape it at every level, from classrooms to research labs to leadership roles. At Pixxel, nearly 48% of our leadership roles are currently held by women, and the Shakuntala Grants build on that commitment, expanding opportunities for women to lead work that advances critical knowledge about our planet,” Awais Ahmed, founder and CEO and Tanya Pallavi, head of people practices, Pixxel, said.

Vinod Kumar, director promotions, IN-SPACe, said, “The launch of the Shakuntala Initiative by Pixxel is a commendable step toward bridging the gender gap in India’s rapidly evolving space sector. At the IN-SPACe, we believe that the next frontier of space innovation-especially in critical areas like climate change and environmental monitoring- will be defined by the talent and perspectives of our women researchers. By providing targeted funding and community support, this initiative not only honours the legacy of trailblazers like Shakuntala Devi but also empowers the next generation of women to lead India’s space-tech revolution from the front.”