The scheme “Research Grant for In-Service Faculty Members” was introduced by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Department of Higher Education (DoHE). The objective of this research grant is to provide opportunities to regularly appointed faculty members of Universities/ Institutes/ Colleges (hereinafter “Institutions”) to pursue research in their area(s).
The objectives of the scheme are:
- To encourage faculty members to engage in innovative research.
- To support higher education institutions in expanding their research capabilities.
- To improve the quality of research through financial assistance.
Benefits of the Research Grant Scheme
1. Financial Assistance
- Total Grant Amount: ₹10,00,000 per faculty member.
- Grant Usage: Can be used for minor equipment, consumables, contingencies, fieldwork, and travel.
- Restrictions:
- Cannot be used for international travel.
- Cannot be used for purchasing furniture.
- Cannot be used to hire a research assistant or fellow.
2. Grant Disbursement in 3 Installments
| Installment | Grant Percentage | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| First Installment | 50% | Released on submission of Joining Report (Annexure-I). |
| Second Installment | 25% | Released after submission of Utilization Certificate (Annexure-II) for the first installment. |
| Final Installment | 25% | Released on reimbursement after submitting Utilization Certificate for the second installment. |
- The grant must be utilized within 2 years from the date of the first installment.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Research Grant for In-Service Faculty Members, applicants must meet the following conditions:
-
Must be a regularly appointed faculty member in one of the following institutions:
- Universities, affiliated colleges, or institutions under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956 with valid NAAC accreditation.
- Deemed-to-be Universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, with valid NAAC accreditation.
- Fully funded Central/State Government institutions authorized to award degrees.
- Institutions of National Importance.
-
Age Criteria:
- Must be under 50 years of age at the time of application.
- Must have at least 10 years of service remaining before retirement.
-
Research Requirements:
- Must have successfully supervised at least 5 full-time Ph.D. candidates.
- Must have successfully completed at least 2 funded research projects (National/International).
Exclusions
The grant will be terminated if:
- False information is provided in the application.
- The recipient engages in plagiarism or unethical research practices.
- Misconduct, fraud, or violation of grant terms is found.
- The recipient is found ineligible after selection.
Application Process
Step 1: Online Registration
- Visit the Official UGC Portal: Research Grant Portal
- Click on “New User” for the relevant scheme.
- Fill in the required details:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- Contact Information
- Academic Institution Details
- Research Experience & Publications
- Scanned passport-size photograph & signature (JPG, Max 1MB)
- Click “Submit” to complete registration.
Step 2: Login and Profile Setup
- Login using credentials sent via email.
- Update your password for future logins.
- Complete your profile by adding educational details, research experience, and required documents.
Step 3: Eligibility Verification
- Go to the “Eligibility Criteria” section.
- Check all eligibility requirements and upload proof of eligibility.
- Click “Submit” to proceed.
Step 4: Research Proposal Submission
- Click on “Apply Now”.
- Fill in the Data Capturing Form for PG & Ph.D. details.
- Upload a research proposal (Max size 5MB, PDF).
- Submit an abstract (Max size 1MB, PDF).
Step 5: Final Submission
- Read the Declaration carefully.
- Agree to the terms and click “Submit”.
- Download the auto-generated application form.
- Get the form signed by the HoD/Registrar and upload it before submission.
Step 6: Selection Process
- Applications are screened by an expert UGC committee.
- Shortlisted candidates are notified via email.
- Final selection is announced on the UGC website.
Documents Required
- Scanned Photograph & Signature (JPG, Max 1MB).
- Complete Research Proposal (PDF, Max 5MB).
- Abstract of Research Proposal (PDF, Max 1MB).
- Letter of Approval from the Institution (Signed by HoD/Registrar).
- Proof of successful Ph.D. supervision (At least 5 candidates).
- Proof of previous research projects funded by national/international agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the maximum grant amount?
The maximum grant is ₹10,00,000 per faculty member. - Can the grant be used for international travel?
No, international travel is not covered under this grant. - Who is eligible to apply for this scheme?
Regularly appointed faculty members in UGC-recognized institutions with NAAC accreditation who meet the research supervision criteria. - What is the age limit for applicants?
Applicants must be below 50 years of age and have at least 10 years of service left. - How many research projects should I have completed before applying?
Applicants must have successfully completed at least 2 funded research projects from national or international agencies. - How is the grant amount disbursed?
The grant is released in three installments (50%-25%-25%) based on progress reports and utilization certificates. - Can I apply offline for the research grant?
No, applications must be submitted online via the UGC portal. - Is there an application fee?
No, there is no application fee for this grant. - Can I edit my application after submission?
No, once submitted, applications cannot be modified.