The INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship is a prestigious five-year program initiated by the Ministry of Science and Technology (in coordination with INSA and DST). It provides opportunities for 100 eligible Ph.D.-qualified researchers each year to pursue independent research in both basic and applied science areas—including engineering, medicine, agriculture, pharmacy, and veterinary sciences.
Key Benefits:
- Monthly Fellowship: ₹1,25,000 (all-inclusive, taxable) with an annual increment of ₹2,000.
- Annual Research Grant: ₹7,00,000 per year for 5 years, with provisions for carry-forward of unspent funds.
Eligibility
Essential Requirements:
- Citizenship: Indian citizens or Persons of Indian Origin (PIO).
- Academic Credentials: Must hold a Ph.D. in science, mathematics, engineering, pharmacy, medicine, or agriculture-related subjects from any recognized university. Candidates who have submitted their Ph.D. thesis (awaiting the degree award) are eligible, though final selection is confirmed after the degree is awarded.
- Academic Performance: Minimum of 60% marks (or equivalent CGPA) from Class 12 onwards.
- Research Record: Must have publications in reputed journals demonstrating outstanding research potential.
- Employment Status: Candidates in regular or contractual positions in India may apply but must resign upon selection.
Desirable Attributes:
- Top 1% achievers in Class 12 examinations.
- IIT-JEE rank holders.
- First rank holders in graduation or post-graduation examinations.
Age Limits:
- General Category: Up to 32 years (as on January 1 of the application year).
- Relaxed Limits: Up to 37 years for SC/ST and women; up to 42 years for persons with benchmark disabilities.
Exclusions:
- Holding more than one fellowship concurrently is not permitted.
Documents Required
For Application:
- Personal Identification:
- Passport-size photograph
- Class X mark sheet or certificate (for proof of date of birth)
- Academic Documents:
- Degree certificates, passing certificates, and mark sheets (from Class 12 onwards)
- Additional Supporting Documents:
- Community/Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Letter of appointment (if currently employed)
- First Rank Certificate (for non-INSPIRE Scholars)
- Details of professional recognitions, awards, and any fellowships
- Comprehensive details of professional training and research experience
For Ph.D. Candidates (Already Enrolled):
- Admission letter issued by the university (by Registrar, Dean, Director, etc.)
- Fee receipt for Ph.D. admission
- CV of the Ph.D. supervisor (highlighting the last 5 years of research credentials)
- Endorsement letter (template available on the INSPIRE portal)
- Methodology and work plan in PDF format, if required
For Receiving the First Installment:
- Bank account details of the host institute
- Joining report
- Undertakings signed by both the Faculty Fellow and the host institute
- Detailed budget breakup for the utilization of the research grant
For Completion of the Fellowship:
- Final Technical Report in the prescribed format
- List of equipment procured (in the prescribed format)
- Performance report
- Final Statement of Expenditure (SE) and year-wise Utilization Certificate (UC)
- Upload of any unspent funds to the designated portal
For Transfer or Change of Host Institution:
- New appointment letter or justification for the change
- NOC from the current host institute
- Acceptance/joining letter from the new host institute
- Fresh signed undertaking (if required)
- Updated financial documents from the current host institute
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
How many candidates are awarded the fellowship each year?
Up to 100 candidates are selected annually. -
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship is for a maximum period of 5 years. -
Which research domains are eligible?
Eligible domains include science, mathematics, engineering, pharmacy, medicine, agriculture, and related fields. -
What are the primary objectives of the fellowship?
The program is designed to nurture independent research careers, enhance high-quality scientific manpower, and provide opportunities for both vertical and lateral entry into the INSPIRE scheme. -
What additional documents are required for applicants who are not INSPIRE Scholars?
Non-INSPIRE Scholars must submit a First Rank Certificate along with other standard documents. -
What does NTRP stand for?
NTRP refers to the Non-Tax Receipt Portal, used for remitting unspent funds after the fellowship period. -
Does the fellowship provide lateral entry options?
Yes, the fellowship supports lateral entry for meritorious candidates in addition to vertical migration from other INSPIRE components. -
Are regular positions guaranteed after the fellowship?
No, while the fellowship provides an excellent platform for independent research, it does not guarantee a permanent position post-fellowship. -
What documents are required for a change of host institution?
Required documents include a new appointment letter, NOC from the current institution, joining letter from the new institution, and updated financial documents. -
How do I submit the online application?
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the INSPIRE portal. Detailed instructions are provided on the website.