Govt Enhances Junior Research Fellowship for OBC Students, Boosts Research Opportunities

New Delhi: In a significant move to promote advanced studies and research among Other Backward Classes (OBC) students, the government is providing 1000 Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) annually under the National Fellowship for OBC (NFOBC) scheme. This initiative aims to empower OBC students and encourage them to undertake research leading to M.Phil./Ph.D.

The selection process for the NFOBC Scheme is based on the merit of candidates in the UGC-NET-JRF and CSIR-NET-JRF examinations. This approach ensures that individuals with exceptional academic capabilities have the opportunity to pursue advanced studies and contribute to the research landscape of the country.

In a recent development, the government has not only increased the number of JRF slots but also revised the fellowship rates, effective from January 1, 2023. The enhancements are as follows:

Revised Fellowship Rates:

Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Increased from Rs. 31,000/- per month to Rs. 37,000/- per month for a duration of 2 years.

Senior Research Fellowship (SRF): Raised from Rs. 35,000/- per month to Rs. 42,000/- per month for the remaining tenure.

These revisions reflect the government’s commitment to providing adequate financial support to aspiring researchers, ensuring that they can focus on their studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of research.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Sushri Pratima Bhoumik, provided this information in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha. The move not only expands research opportunities for OBC students but also aligns with the government’s broader vision of fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge creation in the country.