* Undergraduate level: A bachelor's degree (BA, BS) might suffice for submission to undergraduate journals or conferences, or as a final-year project. The specific requirements will vary based on the institution and program.
* Graduate level: A master's degree (MA, MS) or doctoral degree (PhD) is generally needed for submission to peer-reviewed journals and conferences at the graduate level. PhD-level research is expected to make a significant original contribution to the field.
* Publication in academic journals: Reputable academic journals specializing in Indology, religious studies, literature, history, or South Asian studies will have rigorous standards and often require a relevant postgraduate degree and extensive prior research experience. They often also require blind peer review.
* Conferences: The requirements for presenting Ramayana research at conferences also vary widely. Some conferences may accept undergraduate work, while others might primarily feature graduate-level research or established scholars.
In short, while there's no single "required" degree, the higher the level of the publication or conference, the higher the level of education and research experience typically expected. The quality of the research itself, its originality, methodology, and adherence to academic standards are far more critical than just having a particular degree.