The Post Doctoral Fellowship for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) Candidates, This scheme has been initiated keeping in view the social background of the candidates from the deprived section of society and to provide them an opportunity to undertake advanced studies and research in Science, Engineering & Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences in Indian Universities/Institutions/Colleges.
Objectives
- To support SC/ST candidates in postdoctoral research.
- To provide financial assistance for research work in various fields.
- To promote social inclusion in higher education and research.
Eligible candidates can pursue research at:
- Universities/Institutions/Colleges included under Section 2(f) and 12(B) of the UGC Act.
- Deemed-to-be Universities eligible for UGC funding under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956.
- Universities/Institutions/Colleges funded by the Central or State Government.
- Institutes of National Importance.
Benefits
| Category | Previous Fellowship Rate | Revised Fellowship Rate (w.e.f. 01.12.2014) |
|---|---|---|
| Fellowship Amount | ₹16,000 per month | ₹38,800 per month (first 2 years), ₹46,500 per month (3rd year onwards) |
| Contingency Grant | ₹30,000 per annum | ₹50,000 per annum |
| Departmental Assistance | 10% of the fellowship to the host institution | Not applicable |
| Escorts/Reader Assistance (for physically disabled/blind candidates) | ₹2,000 per month | ₹2,000 per month |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per university/institution rules | As per university/institution rules |
House Rent Allowance (HRA) Policy
- If hostel accommodation is available, only hostel fees (excluding mess, electricity, and water charges) will be paid.
- If hostel accommodation is not available, candidates may be reimbursed actual rent paid (as per Govt. of India norms).
- If candidates arrange their own accommodation, HRA is applicable as per city categorization by the Govt. of India.
Medical Facilities
- No separate medical assistance is provided, but fellows can avail of institutional medical facilities.
Leave Policy
- 30 days of leave per year (excluding public holidays).
- No summer/winter/puja vacation leave.
- Maternity/Paternity leave allowed as per Govt. of India norms.
- Academic Leave (without fellowship) for up to 1 year for academic assignments, foreign visits, etc.
Duration of Fellowship
- 5 years (no extension allowed).
Eligibility
- Unemployed Ph.D. holders from Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST).
- Must have a doctorate degree in the relevant subject (Provisional degree certificate is acceptable if the degree is not awarded).
- Upper age limit:
- Male applicants: 50 years as of the last date of application.
- Female applicants: 55 years as of the last date of application.
- Marks criteria:
- UG level: 50% minimum.
- PG level: 55% minimum.
- Transgender candidates are eligible to apply.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Applications are invited once a year through advertisements in leading newspapers and Employment News.
- Visit the UGC Website: UGC Website
- Click on “Apply Online” and register with your details.
- Upload the required documents (see below).
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Selection Process
- Screening committee shortlists candidates based on eligibility.
- Shortlisted candidates appear before an expert committee.
- Final selection is made by the UGC based on merit.
- No TA/DA is provided for the interview.
- Fellowship starts from April 1 of the selection year or the date of joining, whichever is later.
Grant Disbursement
- The fellowship amount is directly credited to the fellow’s bank account via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
- The university/institution must validate the scholar’s details every 3 months to ensure continuity of the fellowship.
- Progress reports and financial statements must be submitted annually.
Resignation & Transfer
- If a fellow wishes to resign, they must inform UGC immediately.
- If a fellow wishes to transfer to another institution, approval must be taken from the host institution and UGC.
- Only one transfer is allowed during the tenure.
Cancellation of Award
The fellowship is liable for cancellation in cases of:
- Misconduct by the fellow.
- Unsatisfactory research progress.
- Furnishing false information in the application.
- Availing of another scholarship/fellowship from any other source.
- Employment during the tenure of the fellowship.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (or other ID proof).
- Passport-size Photograph.
- Proof of Age.
- Mark Sheets/Grade Cards & Degrees.
- Caste Certificate.
- Disability Certificate (if applicable).
- Income Certificate (if applicable).
- Bank Account Details.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Research Institution.
- Any other supporting documents (if required).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the objective of the scheme?
To support unemployed SC/ST Ph.D. holders in pursuing postdoctoral research. - Q: How much fellowship amount is given?
₹38,800 per month for the first 2 years and ₹46,500 per month from the 3rd year onwards. - Q: What is the duration of the fellowship?
The tenure is 5 years with no extensions. - Q: Is HRA provided?
Yes, as per institutional/government norms. - Q: Is separate medical assistance provided?
No, but fellows can use university medical facilities. - Q: What is the eligibility criterion?
Candidates must be SC/ST Ph.D. holders, aged up to 50 (male) / 55 (female), and unemployed. - Q: Are transgender candidates eligible?
Yes, transgender candidates can apply. - Q: How many slots are available per year?
The number of slots varies annually based on UGC decisions. - Q: Can I apply offline?
No, applications are only accepted online through the UGC portal. - Q: What happens if I leave the fellowship midway?
If you resign, the fellowship will be terminated immediately. - Q: Can I apply if I already have a job?
No, only unemployed Ph.D. holders can apply.