Green Business Scheme 2026

The Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research scheme supports young Indian researchers to pursue industry-relevant PhDs, fostering Read More... collaboration between academia and industry. Read less

Details

The Government of India, through the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) under the Department of Science & Technology, offers the Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research. This scheme is designed to boost Ph.D. research that has practical applications and is relevant to industries in India. It aims to create strong ties between universities and companies, encouraging innovation in critical fields like Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine.

What Is This Scheme?

This fellowship is for bright young Indian minds pursuing their doctoral studies. It helps them focus on research topics that matter to industries and can lead to real-world solutions. The program offers financial backing and hands-on experience by connecting fellows with industry experts for guidance and mentorship.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The fellowship is for full-time Ph.D. scholars in recognized Indian universities or research institutions. A key requirement is having an industry partner ready to support the research financially and provide expert guidance. The research topic must be innovative and have clear industrial relevance.

Why This Scheme Is Important

By bridging the gap between academic research and industrial needs, this scheme plays a crucial role in advancing India's research and development capabilities. It ensures that doctoral research contributes directly to technological progress and economic growth, while also providing scholars with valuable industry exposure and career opportunities.

Objective

The Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research scheme supports young Indian researchers to pursue industry-relevant PhDs, fostering collaboration between academia and industry.

Benefits

Quantum of AssistanceNational Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) would provide need-based loans under the scheme as permissible under the NSFDC Term Loan Lending Policy, promoter contribution, and after taking into consideration the margin money being provided by Special Central Assistance (SCA), subsidies provided by other government agencies, and subsidies provided to below poverty line (BPL) beneficiaries under the Central-Sector Scheme of Special Central Assistance to the Special Component Plan, to the extent of ₹ 10,000/- or 50% of the unit cost, whichever is less.Interest RatesSchemeUnit CostMaximum Loan Limit up to 90% of unit CostInterest per AnnumInterest per AnnumSCA/CABeneficiaryGreen Business Scheme (GBS)Up to Rs. 7.50 LakhRs. 6.75 lakh2%4%Above Rs. 7.50 lakh & up to Rs. 15.00 lakhRs. 13.50 lakh3%6%Above Rs. 15.00 lakh & up to Rs. 30.00 lakhRs. 27.00 lakh4%7%*(1% Rebate from NSKFDC share of interest in case of Female Beneficiaries.)RepaymentThe loan under the scheme shall be repaid in quarterly installments, within a maximum period of 10 years including moratorium period of 06 months. In addition, 120 days moratorium period is allowed to SCA for fund utilization.

Sources and references

Official Website

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be Indian citizens.
Must be a full-time PhD scholar registered in any recognized Indian university, institute, or research laboratory.
The PhD registration date should not be more than 14 months prior to the application submission date. This means you should apply within 14 months of your PhD admission or registration, whichever is earlier.
Must have a confirmed industry partner ready to provide financial support, guidance, and mentorship for the research project.
The research topic, agreed upon by the applicant and the industry partner, must be innovative, practically relevant, and have industrial applications.
Selected applicants must be willing to work with or at the supporting company as and when required during the project period.
Selected scholars cannot receive any other fellowship simultaneously.

How To Apply

Interested candidates can apply online through the official scheme portal: www.primeministerfellowshipscheme.in.
Ensure you have all the necessary documents and details ready before starting the online application. Refer to Annexure I in the Call for Proposal document on the portal for a complete list.
Candidates need to find and secure an industry partner to support their research project before applying. The online system will not accept applications without an industry partner.
The scheme is open-ended, allowing applications throughout the year, provided all eligibility criteria, including the 14-month registration window, are met.
Only soft copies of the application and supporting documents are required to be uploaded. No hard copies need to be sent to any agency.

Documents Required

Recent Passport Size Photograph
PhD Enrolment & Registration Certificate
Certificates for 10th, 12th, Graduation & Post-Graduation degrees
Scanned copies of other relevant Degree / Diploma Certificates (if applicable)
Profile of the host academic institution
Bio-data of the PhD Supervisor (not exceeding 3 pages)
Profile of the Partner Company, including its logo
Bio-data of the Industry Mentor (not exceeding 3 pages)
An undertaking from the Research Supervisor and the Head of the Institute/University
An undertaking from the Industry Partner confirming their support for the Research Project
A Letter from the Industry Partner (on company letterhead) detailing the research problem and future implementation plans, if any
List of Publications
Research Synopsis
Any other documents as may be required

FAQ’s

Can I apply for the fellowship if I don't have an industry partner initially? Does CII help find one?

No, applications without a confirmed industry partner will not be accepted. You need to find an industry partner on your own. The portal www.primeministerfellowshipscheme.in can help with matchmaking by allowing you to register and search for partners, but it doesn't guarantee you'll find one. Your project's relevance to industries and your ability to present your capabilities will be key.

What are the main goals of the Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research?

The scheme aims to motivate talented young Indian PhD researchers to conduct industry-relevant research in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine. It also focuses on building strong partnerships between industries and academic institutions to advance R&D and promote research in areas beneficial to industries.

Who implements this fellowship program?

The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, is the body behind this scheme. The implementation is handled by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) on behalf of SERB.

What is the Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research?

This is a government initiative by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) to support promising Indian PhD scholars. It encourages research that aligns with industry needs and national priorities, fostering collaboration between universities and companies.

What kind of support can a fellow expect under this scheme?

Fellows receive a scholarship that is double the amount of the usual JRF/SRF fellowship. The scheme also provides significant industry exposure and mentorship from both academic and industry experts.

What are the important research areas covered by this fellowship?

The fellowship covers research in the broad fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine.

If my application is not selected this year, can I apply again next year?

Yes, you can reapply in the next cycle as a fresh candidate. Just make sure your information is updated and you still meet all the eligibility criteria at the time of the new application.

How do I find suitable industry partners for my research project?

It's recommended to discuss potential industry partners with your research guide. You can also research companies in your field, identify those working on relevant technologies, and approach them directly. Staying updated on industry trends and networking can also help you connect with potential partners.

What makes a research project suitable for selection under this fellowship?

Projects are assessed based on their innovation and scientific merit, ensuring they go beyond basic exploration. High potential for commercialization is also a key factor. Additionally, the track records of the applicant, their academic supervisor, and the industry mentor are important selection parameters.

What is the application deadline for this fellowship?

The scheme is open for applications throughout the year. The main condition is that your PhD registration must be within 14 months from the date you submit your application.

What are the basic requirements to be eligible for this fellowship?

You need to be an Indian citizen and a full-time PhD scholar in a recognized Indian institution. Your PhD registration should be no more than 14 months old from your application date. Crucially, you must have an industry partner who agrees to support your project financially and provide mentorship. Your research topic should be innovative with clear industrial relevance. You also need to be willing to work with your industry partner and not be receiving any other fellowship.

Are there any specific institutions where PM Fellows conduct their research?

Yes, PM Fellows are pursuing their PhDs at a variety of prestigious institutions across India. Some of these include Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Banaras Hindu University, Anna University, Alagappa University, and many others listed by the scheme.

How does the online application process work, and what should I do before applying?

Before filling out the online application, gather all the necessary documents and information. You can find a detailed list in Annexure I of the Call for Proposal document on the official website. The portal is designed for online submission, and you will receive an automated response upon submission. No hard copies are needed.

Can I submit my application multiple times if I want to make changes?

You can review and edit your application form as many times as you need before the final submission. However, once you have uploaded the form, you cannot submit it again. Make sure to finalize it carefully.

What is the duration of the fellowship?

The fellowship is provided for a maximum period of four years.

What is the key advantage of this fellowship?

The fellowship offers significant benefits, including an attractive scholarship amount. It also provides unique opportunities for national and international exposure, along with mentorship from experts in both academia and industry through regular review meetings.

Will I receive confirmation after submitting my application, and should I contact CII?

You will receive an automatic confirmation email after submitting your application. CII will not make personal calls for confirmation. If you do not get an email within 24 hours, you should contact CII at [email protected].