National Mission on Natural Farming 2026

The University Grants Commission (UGC) offers the Junior Research Fellowship in Engineering & Technology scheme for individuals Read More... aiming to complete their PhD research in engineering and technology fields. Read less

Details

Are you passionate about research in engineering and technology? The University Grants Commission (UGC), under the Department of Higher Education, has a special scheme to support your academic journey. The Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Engineering & Technology aims to empower bright minds to pursue doctoral research.

What Is This Scheme?

This fellowship is designed for students who want to conduct research and earn a PhD in engineering and technology. Since the UGC and CSIR do not currently conduct national tests for these specific fields, this scheme offers a direct pathway through interviews conducted by the UGC. There are 50 fellowship slots available each year.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This fellowship is for Master's degree holders in engineering, technology, or pharmacy who aspire to dive deeper into research and obtain a PhD. It specifically targets those looking to undertake advanced study and research in engineering, technology, and agricultural engineering.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The scheme plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and advanced learning within India's engineering and technology sectors. By providing financial support and a structured research environment, it encourages scholars to contribute valuable research and knowledge, driving progress in these critical fields.

Objective

The University Grants Commission (UGC) offers the Junior Research Fellowship in Engineering & Technology scheme for individuals aiming to complete their PhD research in engineering and technology fields.

Benefits

• Farmers practicing Natural Farming reported similar yields to those following conventional farming. In several cases, higher yields per harvest were also reported.• As Natural Farming does not use any synthetic chemicals, health risks and hazards are eliminated. The food has higher nutrition density and therefore offers better health benefits.• Natural Farming ensures better soil biology, improved agrobiodiversity and a more judicious usage of water with much smaller carbon and nitrogen footprints.• Natural Farming aims to make farming viable and aspirational by increasing net incomes of farmers on account of cost reduction, reduced risks, similar yields, incomes from intercropping.• By working with diverse crops that help each other and cover the soil to prevent unnecessary water loss through evaporation, Natural Farming optimizes the amount of ‘crop per drop’.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Who Can Apply?

You should have a Master's degree in engineering/technology/pharmacy with at least 55 percent marks.
A GATE score is not mandatory for applying for this research fellowship.
You must hold an M.E./M.Tech. degree.
The age limit is 40 years as of July 1st of the award year. This age limit can be extended by five years for women and candidates belonging to SC/ST categories.
A reservation of 22.5 percent of the fellowships is set aside for SC/ST candidates who meet the required qualifications. If suitable SC/ST candidates are not found, these slots will be offered to general candidates.

How To Apply

The application process typically involves the following steps:

Obtain the application form and related documents.
Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
Prepare a brief abstract (not exceeding 500 words) about your proposed research work, including the methods you plan to use.
Submit the duly filled application form along with all required documents and the research abstract. Specific submission instructions, including the address for sending applications, will be provided by the UGC or the relevant department.
The final selection is usually based on interviews conducted by the Commission.

Note: Always refer to the official UGC notifications for the exact application procedure, submission address, and deadlines.

Documents You'll Need

Completed Application Form
Aadhaar Card
Proof of Date of Birth (e.g., Birth Certificate or Class 10th Marksheet)
Proof of Identity and Address
Educational Qualification Certificates and Marksheets (Master's degree, etc.)
Certificate from the Head of your Department/Institution
A concise abstract (under 500 words) of your proposed research work
Proof of current employment status (if applicable)
A Declaration form
Basic Data Sheet
Caste Certificate (if applicable, for SC/ST candidates)
Minority Certificate (if applicable)
Disability Certificate (if applicable, for persons with disabilities)
Bank Account Details
Any other government-issued ID proof

FAQ’s

What's the main goal of this Junior Research Fellowship?

The main goal is to help promising scholars conduct advanced research leading to a PhD in engineering, technology, and agricultural engineering. It aims to foster expertise and innovation in these fields.

How long does the fellowship last?

The total duration of the fellowship, covering both Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) periods, is five years. This tenure is fixed and cannot be extended. You can receive the fellowship either for the full five years or until you complete your PhD, whichever is earlier.

What financial aid is provided under this scheme?

You receive a monthly fellowship of Rs. 14,000 for the first two years and Rs. 15,000 for the remaining period. Additionally, there's an annual contingency grant of Rs. 12,000 for the first two years and Rs. 25,000 for the subsequent years to cover research expenses. Host institutions also get Rs. 3,000 per year per student for infrastructure support.

Is a GATE score necessary to get this fellowship?

No, a GATE score is not a mandatory requirement to be considered for this research fellowship. Your academic merit and performance in the interview will be key.

Are there any age restrictions for applicants?

Yes, the age limit is 40 years as of July 1st of the year the award is given. However, this limit is extended by five years for women candidates and those belonging to SC/ST categories.

Are fellowships reserved for SC/ST candidates?

Yes, 22.5 percent of the total fellowships are reserved for candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) who meet the eligibility criteria. If these reserved slots are not filled by eligible SC/ST candidates, they will be offered to general category applicants.

Can I take leave during the fellowship?

Research fellows are allowed a maximum of 30 days of leave per year, in addition to public holidays. You are not entitled to other types of leaves like summer or winter vacations. However, women candidates are eligible for 135 days of maternity leave once during their fellowship tenure.

What happens if I need to take a break for other work?

In special circumstances, you might be allowed to take leave without fellowship for up to one academic year to accept a temporary teaching position in the same city. If you make other accommodation arrangements, you may be eligible for House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per government rules.

Do I need to submit a research proposal?

Yes, along with your application, you must submit a brief abstract of your proposed research work, not exceeding 500 words, detailing the methods you intend to use.

Is there any cost to apply for this scheme?

No, the entire application process for this fellowship is free of charge. There are no application fees.

What if I'm a physically challenged candidate?

Candidates with physical handicaps or visual impairment are eligible for Escorts/Reader Assistance of Rs. 2,000 per month to help them with their research.

Are there any subjects not covered by this fellowship?

Yes, the fellowship is for research in engineering, technology, and agricultural engineering. Subjects like geology and geo-physics are not included under this scheme.