The Neev Literature Festival (NLF) is offering Fellowships of Rs 6 lakh to selected children’s book creators (writers and illustrators) to produce richly-detailed manuscripts that authentically mirror Indian lives and require a significant investment of time and effort. 

Applications will be invited through emailers and social media announcements.

Applications for the next edition of the Fellowship will be opening soon; keep an eye on this page!

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The Project

Write a children’s book that brings alive a story that parents, children and librarians fall in love with. A story that captures a slice of India or Indians (anywhere in the world) that is so deeply authentic, moving and immersive that it brings alive an aspect of India—pre- and post-independence—in an engaging book. 

The work will be true to the era that it depicts, bringing alive people and place effectively. 

You’ll Produce

A complete manuscript for a chapter book/novel. 

The work will be expected to meet a global benchmark for children’s literature. 

Terms and conditions*

You’ll receive
  • A grant of Rs 4 lakh to complete your manuscript in 1 year
  • This will be payable as monthly instalments over 12 months
  • The balance of Rs 2 lakh will be payable once a publishing contract is signed