Annual Maroof Raza Memorial Essay Writing Competition 2026
Security & Geopolitical Affairs in a Fragmenting World Order.
A tribute to the enduring legacy of Maroof Raza inviting young minds to think critically about the evolving security landscape and contribute fresh ideas on issues of national and global importance.
A tribute to an enduring legacy.
The Annual Maroof Raza Memorial Essay Writing Competition 2026, organised by the Maroof Raza Centre for Security Studies (MRCSS) & IIRIS Consulting, is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Maroof Raza one of India's foremost strategic affairs experts, respected national security commentator, and a valued advisor to IIRIS Consulting.
The competition aims to encourage young minds to think critically about the evolving security landscape and contribute fresh ideas on issues of national and global importance. It provides a platform for participants to showcase their research, analytical thinking, and writing skills while engaging with contemporary challenges in security, geopolitics, defence, technology, and public policy.
Whether you aspire to build a career in strategic affairs, defence, diplomacy, intelligence, cybersecurity, law, public policy, or research this competition offers an opportunity to share your perspectives and be recognised on a national platform.
Security & Geopolitical Affairs in a Fragmenting World Order
Recognition for exceptional writing.
Award Ceremony
The winners will receive their awards from the Chief Guest during the Times Secure India Summit 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
Open to young scholars across India.
Applicants must be currently enrolled in a recognised programme
Undergraduate
Enrolled in a recognised undergraduate programme.
Postgraduate
Enrolled in a recognised postgraduate programme.
Diploma
Enrolled in a recognised diploma programme.
Doctoral
Enrolled in a recognised doctoral programme.
Research Scholars
Working under faculty advisors.
Proof of age and enrolment required during the evaluation process.
Craft with rigour and originality.
Follow the submission requirements carefully. Entries that do not comply may be disqualified.
Word Count: 800–1,000 words
Entries exceeding 1,000 words may lead to automatic evaluation penalties or disqualification.
Language: English
The essay is to be written and submitted in English.
Original & Unpublished
Submissions must be the participant's original, unpublished work. Plagiarism or AI-generated text will be flagged and filtered out. AI-assisted writing is permitted only up to 20% of the submitted content.
Format: .doc / .docx
Essays must be submitted in Microsoft Word format with a suitable title.
Credible References
Wherever applicable, factual claims should be supported with credible references.
One Entry Per Participant
Only one entry per participant will be accepted.
Deadline Strictly Enforced
Entries received after the submission deadline will not be considered.
Organisers' Rights
The organisers reserve the right to verify originality and amend competition rules if required.
Required Documents
Participants must submit the following documents along with their essay:
Assessed by distinguished experts.
All entries will be evaluated by an independent jury comprising distinguished experts from academia, strategic affairs, national security, defence, and allied fields.
Jury members will be announced shortly.
Essays will be assessed on:
Time is of the essence.
21 August 2026
Send your essay & required documents.
Email your completed essay
Submit your essay along with the required documents by email before the deadline.