Meghalaya Adventure Tourism Scheme 2026

This scheme by UGC helps bright students pursue PhD degrees in science subjects by offering financial support Read More... for their research. Read less

Details

The University Grants Commission (UGC) under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, offers the BSR Fellowship Scheme for Science Students. This initiative aims to support talented individuals pursuing advanced studies and research, ultimately leading to a Ph.D. in science disciplines. It's designed for students in various science-related departments at eligible universities.

What Is This Scheme?

The BSR Fellowship Scheme is for students who have already been selected for a Ph.D. program through the regular admission process at universities recognized by the UGC. It provides financial assistance to enable them to focus on their research and academic pursuits without financial stress.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

Meritorious students who have secured admission to a Ph.D. program in science, bio-sciences, agricultural sciences, or engineering sciences at universities identified by the UGC are eligible to apply. The scheme encourages research in departments that have been recognized for their academic excellence.

Why This Scheme Is Important

This scheme plays a crucial role in fostering scientific research in India. By providing fellowships and contingency grants, it empowers students to undertake innovative research, contribute to the advancement of science, and develop into skilled researchers. It ensures that financial barriers do not hinder academic potential.

Objective

This scheme by UGC helps bright students pursue PhD degrees in science subjects by offering financial support for their research.

Benefits

75% of total equipment cost supported (5% by entrepreneur, 75% as front-ended subsidy by Government of Meghalaya)

Credit linkage through partnered banks (Meghalaya Rural Bank, MCAB, SBI, Shillong Co-operative Urban Bank)

Loan of up to 20% of project cost, repayable over a 2-year term, with a 6-month moratorium

Financial support for eco-friendly infrastructure (e.g., eco-campsites, bio-toilets, safety signage)

Financial assistance for training and certification with national bodies (e.g., IMF, NIWS)

Workshops on first aid, CPR, wilderness rescue, risk management, and customer service

Marketing support via official Meghalaya Tourism channels and promotional materials

Support in building linkages with tour operators and participation in tourism marts

Pre-approved vendor list available, but entrepreneurs may choose other vendors within capped prices

Mandatory environmental safeguards and compliance with national/international safety standards

Capacity building programs and SOP development support for adventure operators

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must have been selected for Ph.D. registration through the regular admission procedure at universities identified by UGC, such as those with 'Potential for Excellence' or 'Centres of Advance Studies'.
The Ph.D. registration should happen after the admission process is completed.

Other Important Points:

Universities can admit fellows under this scheme irrespective of the usual student-to-supervisor ratio.
Resignation: If a fellow decides to leave before the tenure ends, they must inform the designated agency and UGC.
Fellowship Cancellation: The fellowship can be cancelled for reasons like misconduct, poor research progress, providing false information, being employed, or receiving fellowship from other sources.
Progress Monitoring: Fellows must submit yearly progress reports through their supervisor. The university maintains these records.
Restrictions: Fellows cannot hold any other paid appointment or emolument during the fellowship. However, they can assist with academic work like tutorials if it doesn't affect their research.
Prior Approvals: Prior permission from the university and UGC is required for relinquishing the fellowship or appearing in external examinations.
Feedback and Submission: After completing research, fellows must submit their work and publications to the INFLIBNET repository. Final installments of the fellowship are released after this.

How To Apply

Interested candidates who have secured admission for Ph.D. at eligible universities should follow the admission procedure laid down by their respective institutions. The selection for the fellowship is typically done by a committee at the university level based on UGC guidelines. For detailed information and to identify eligible institutions, please refer to the official UGC website.

Official Source for Details: The UGC notification provides comprehensive details, including the prescribed proforma for recommendations and progress reports. Please visit the UGC website for the latest updates and documents.

Documents Required

Aadhaar Card
Recent Photograph
Proof of Identity and Address
Bank Account Details (for direct fund transfer)
Educational Qualification Certificates (e.g., Masters degree, Ph.D. admission proof)
GATE/NET qualification score card (if applicable)
Any other documents specified by the host institution or UGC.

FAQ’s

What is the main goal of the BSR Fellowship Scheme?

The core purpose of this scheme is to offer financial assistance to talented students so they can pursue advanced research and earn a Ph.D. in various science disciplines.

Can I apply for this fellowship if I'm pursuing a part-time Ph.D.?

No, this fellowship is strictly for candidates pursuing full-time research leading to an M.Phil or Ph.D. at eligible universities.

What financial support can I expect under this fellowship?

You can receive a monthly fellowship amount as JRF and later as SRF, along with an annual contingency grant for research expenses. The exact amounts vary for GATE/NET qualified candidates and others.

How long is the fellowship awarded?

The fellowship is initially granted for two years. It can be extended for up to three more years as SRF, making a total tenure of up to five years, provided your research progress is satisfactory.

What if I already have hostel accommodation?

If you are provided with hostel accommodation by the institution, you will be eligible to receive hostel fees but not House Rent Allowance (HRA). If you make your own arrangements, HRA will be provided as per government norms.

Does the fellowship cover medical expenses?

While there isn't a separate medical allowance, you can make use of the medical facilities available at your host university or institution.

Are there any restrictions on other employment while receiving this fellowship?

Yes, you are not allowed to hold any other paid appointment or receive emoluments from any other source during the tenure of this fellowship.

Under what circumstances can my fellowship be cancelled?

The fellowship can be cancelled if there's misconduct, unsatisfactory research progress, if you are found ineligible later, if you are already receiving another scholarship, or if any fraudulent activity is detected.

Where can I find the official application details and forms?

You should refer to the official notifications and website of the University Grants Commission (UGC) for the most accurate and up-to-date information, including application procedures and required documents.

Does the scheme cover all science disciplines?

The scheme is applicable to Departments of Sciences, Bio-Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, and Engineering Sciences in eligible universities as identified by the UGC.

How is the progress of research work monitored?

You are required to submit half-yearly progress reports through your supervisor. The university will maintain records of your research progress.

Can I take academic leave during the fellowship?

Yes, in special cases and with prior approval from the Commission, you may be allowed academic leave without fellowship for up to one year to undertake academic or research-related travel.