The Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research is a prestigious initiative under the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. It aims to foster industry-academia collaboration by encouraging young PhD researchers to undertake industry-relevant research in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine.
Under this scheme, 100 fellowships are awarded annually to researchers pursuing PhD in reputed technology and research institutions in India. It is jointly implemented by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) on behalf of SERB.
Objective
- To encourage young PhD researchers to take up industry-relevant research.
- To strengthen industry-academia partnerships for advanced R&D projects.
- To promote research in industrially relevant subject areas with high commercialization potential.
Duration of Fellowship
- The fellowship is awarded for a maximum period of four years.
Key Features
- Full-time PhD scholars receive double the JRF/SRF fellowship amount.
- 100 new fellowships are awarded annually.
- One-half of the scholarship is funded by the Government of India, while the other half is sponsored by a partner company.
- The industry partner guides the research and supports the project financially.
- Fellows receive mentorship from industry and academic experts through annual review meetings and mentorship sessions.
Benefits
- Financial support:
- Selected PhD scholars receive double the standard JRF/SRF fellowship.
- Industry collaboration:
- Scholars work on practical industry-relevant research with an industry partner.
- Mentorship and Networking:
- Scholars gain national and international exposure through industry and academia.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- The applicant must be a full-time PhD scholar in any recognized Indian university/institute/research laboratory.
- The PhD registration date must not exceed 14 months from the application submission date.
- The applicant must have a valid industry partner ready to:
- Provide financial support.
- Offer research mentorship and guidance.
- The research topic must be innovative, industry-relevant, and commercially viable.
- The applicant should not receive any other fellowship once selected under this scheme.
- The applicant must be willing to work with the industry partner as required during the research period.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Register as a student at www.primeministerfellowshipscheme.in or www.serbficci-iirrada.in.
- Prepare the application form according to the provided guidelines.
- Download the Call for Proposal and Document Checklist.
- Partner with an industry and get the required undertakings signed by both:
- A valid signatory from the company.
- The host institute/university.
- Gather and digitize all required documents.
- Complete the online application form (available only online, cannot be downloaded).
- Submit the application online.
Selection Criteria
- The project should be innovative and scientifically valuable.
- The research should have a high commercialization potential.
- The academic guide and industry mentor should have a strong research background.
Documents Required
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Recent Passport Size Photograph | Mandatory |
| PhD Enrolment & Registration Certificate | Proof of admission |
| 10th, 12th, Graduation & Post-Graduation Certificates | Educational qualifications |
| Other Degree/Diploma Certificates (if applicable) | If additional qualifications exist |
| Profile of the Host Institute | University/Institute details |
| Bio-data of PhD Supervisor | Max 3 pages |
| Profile of Partner Company with Logo | Company background |
| Bio-data of Industry Mentor | Max 3 pages |
| Undertaking from the Research Supervisor & Head of Institute | Signed document |
| Undertaking from the Industry Partner | Signed company document |
| Letter from Industry Partner | On company letterhead detailing the research problem |
| Publications (if any) | List of research papers |
| Research Synopsis | Summary of research work |
| Other relevant documents | As required |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the “Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research”?
It is a government initiative to encourage industry-relevant PhD research by providing financial support and industry-academia collaboration.
Q: How long is the fellowship awarded?
The fellowship is granted for up to four years.
Q: What are the benefits of the scheme?
PhD scholars receive double the JRF/SRF amount, industry collaboration, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Q: Can I apply if I do not have an industry partner?
No, having an industry partner is mandatory.
Q: How many fellowships are awarded annually?
Up to 100 fellowships are awarded each year.
Q: What are the eligibility criteria?
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Must be a full-time PhD scholar.
- Must apply within 14 months of PhD registration.
- Must have an industry partner.
- Must not receive any other fellowship.
Q: How can I find an industry partner?
Applicants are expected to reach out to relevant companies for collaboration. FICCI/CII does not provide direct assistance.
Q: Can I reapply if I am not selected?
Yes, you can apply again the following year if you are not selected.
Q: Does the application require submission of a hard copy?
No, the application is completely online, and no physical copies should be sent.
Q: How does the online application process work?
- Register on the official website.
- Prepare and submit an online application with supporting documents.
- No hard copies are needed.