E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s E-YUVA Fellows (for under graduate students) 2026

The National Solar Science Fellowship Programme, launched by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy in 2011, Read More... offers a platform for top scientists and engineers to conduct cutting-edge research in solar energy. Read less

Details

India is rapidly expanding its solar energy capacity, and to fuel this growth, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE) introduced the National Solar Science Fellowship Programme. Launched in February 2011, this initiative aims to nurture brilliant minds dedicated to advancing solar energy science, engineering, and technology.

What Is This Scheme?

The National Solar Science Fellowship Programme is designed to support accomplished scientists and engineers who are keen to work on the most advanced aspects of solar energy. It encourages research that can lead to significant developments in solar energy science, engineering, and technology, ultimately contributing to India's energy security and sustainable development goals. The program facilitates collaboration with prestigious institutions in India and abroad, providing a robust environment for tackling complex solar energy challenges for various applications, including power generation.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This fellowship is for Indian scientists and engineers who have a proven track record and leadership qualities in the field of solar energy research. It caters to individuals with doctoral degrees or equivalent qualifications, as well as exceptionally talented individuals with M.Tech. or M.S. degrees who have significant research experience and publications.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The programme plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and excellence in solar energy research. By bringing together top talent and providing them with ample resources, it aims to accelerate the development and application of solar technologies. This initiative directly contributes to finding practical solutions for India's energy needs and strengthens the nation's position in the global renewable energy landscape.

Objective

The National Solar Science Fellowship Programme, launched by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy in 2011, offers a platform for top scientists and engineers to conduct cutting-edge research in solar energy.

Benefits

BIRAC’s E-YUVA Fellows will receive a quarterly stipend and annual research grant as mentioned below:

Quarterly Stipend: INR 7,500/- per quarter per student of the team
Annual research grant: INR 2,50,000/- per team
EYCs, EYC knowledge partners, and BIRAC provide continuous mentoring support to fellows, including but not limited to Technical Mentoring, IP Support, Legal Support, Networking and Outreach, Training, Regulatory Advice, Business Mentoring, and Fundraising.

Note 01:Stipend is released quarterly to the student’s account, subject to the Mentor’s approval.

Note 02:The annual research grant is released in two installments (1st installment: 75%; 2nd installment: 25%) to the Institute’s account and is managed by the mentor/guide.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be Indian citizens or of Indian origin.
The fellowship is open to all scientists working in solar energy science, engineering, and technology, including those in government bodies, public institutions, and individuals working independently but with proposals beneficial to the Government of India.
Candidates should hold a doctorate or an equivalent degree in solar sciences/engineering with an excellent research record and at least ten years of experience in solar energy research (including PhD work).
In special cases, M.Tech. or M.S. degree holders with significant publications and lab/industry experience may be considered if the Fellowship Management Committee deems their proposals worthy.
A strong academic background and experience in R&D related to solar energy and its associated fields are essential.
There is no age limit for applicants.

How To Apply

Applications are invited through open advertisement for talented scientists with proven records in any field of solar science or engineering.
Candidates need to submit a comprehensive R&D proposal along with their application.
The application process is typically offline, following the instructions provided in the application guidelines.

Documents Required

Identity proof
Certificates for educational qualifications
Caste Certificate (if applicable)
Experience certificate in R&D
Research and Development (R&D) proposal
Details of national/international awards or recognition
Details of any films/audio-visuals produced
Details of scientific/technical papers published
Any other relevant documents as specified

FAQ’s

When was this fellowship program started?

The National Solar Science Fellowship Programme was launched by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy in February 2011.

What financial support does the fellowship offer?

Each selected fellow receives an annual grant of up to ₹32.00 lakhs. This includes emoluments (up to ₹12.00 lakhs), contingencies (up to ₹5.00 lakhs), and a research grant (up to ₹15.00 lakhs). This amount is adjusted based on the duration of the fellowship.

Who is responsible for launching this scheme?

This scheme is an initiative of the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India.

Is there a maximum limit on the number of fellows at any given time?

Yes, the total number of fellows supported by the program at any point is limited to 10. In the first year of its launch, only three fellows were selected.

Can someone with an M.Tech. or M.S. degree apply?

Yes, individuals holding an M.Tech. or M.S. degree are eligible if they have strong published work and relevant lab/industry experience, provided the Fellowship Management Committee finds their research proposal compelling.

What is the primary objective of this fellowship?

The main goal is to provide a platform for highly qualified scientists and engineers to conduct advanced research in solar energy. It aims to leverage institutional resources to solve complex problems in solar energy utilization for various applications, including power generation.

What is the typical duration of this fellowship?

The fellowship is initially for two years. It can be extended for up to three more years on a year-to-year basis, depending on the progress of the fellow's research work.

Are there any age restrictions for applicants?

No, there is no age bar for candidates applying to this fellowship programme.

What is the required educational background and experience?

Applicants generally need a doctorate or equivalent in solar sciences/engineering with at least ten years of research experience. A strong academic and R&D background in solar energy and related fields is essential. M.Tech./M.S. holders with substantial experience and publications may also be considered.

How are applications submitted for this fellowship?

The application process is usually done offline. Interested candidates are invited to apply through open advertisements, submitting a detailed research proposal as per the guidelines provided.

Who is considered eligible to apply for this fellowship?

The fellowship is open to all Indian scientists working in solar energy science, engineering, and technology. This includes those in government and public institutions, as well as individuals not currently associated with public bodies but working in the field with research ideas beneficial to the Indian government.