Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme 2026

This scheme supports select young Indian scientists with proven research records, giving them special assistance to conduct Read More... cutting-edge research in science and technology. Read less

Details

Celebrating India's 50 years of independence, the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme was launched to empower promising young scientists. The goal is to provide them with the resources and freedom needed to conduct groundbreaking research in new areas of science and technology.

What Is This Scheme?

The Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme is a special initiative by the Indian government. It's designed to identify and support talented young scientists across the country. Awardees get the flexibility to pursue their innovative research ideas without major financial or procedural hurdles. The focus is on research that can significantly advance scientific knowledge and technology.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This fellowship is for Indian citizens who are already working in recognized academic or research institutions in India. They need to have a strong background, including a Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, or Medicine. The scheme specifically targets those who are active in frontier research areas and have a history of significant scientific contributions like publications or patents.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The scheme plays a crucial role in nurturing India's scientific talent. By providing substantial financial support and research autonomy, it encourages young scientists to explore novel ideas and push the boundaries of their fields. This ultimately contributes to the nation's scientific progress and innovation ecosystem.

Objective

This scheme supports select young Indian scientists with proven research records, giving them special assistance to conduct cutting-edge research in science and technology.

Benefits

The award consists of a Fellowship of ₹25,000/- per month in addition to the salary drawn from the parent Institute for a period of 5 years.
The fellows selected along with their projects will be considered for funding by the Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) as per SERB norms, for fellowship, recurring and non-recurring heads.

Sources and references

Official Website

Eligibility Criteria

You must be an Indian citizen holding a permanent position at a recognized academic or research institution in India.
You should have a Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, or Medicine. Crucially, you should not be receiving any fellowship from another Government of India scheme.
You need to be actively involved in research in a frontier area of science and engineering. Evidence of outstanding contributions, such as publications in reputable journals, patents, and recognition from the scientific community, is essential.
The institution where you work must agree to manage the project's financial and other administrative aspects throughout the fellowship's five-year term.
The age limit for applicants is between 30 and 40 years old.

How To Apply

Applications for the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme are accepted exclusively through the online mode. You can access the application portal via the following link:

DST e-PMS Portal

Visit the portal to find detailed information and submit your application.

Documents Required

Identity Proof (like Aadhaar Card)
A recent passport-size photograph
Proof of your date of birth (to verify age)
Certificates of your educational qualifications
Proof of your current employment and any other relevant employment history
Details of professional recognitions, awards, and fellowships you have received
A complete list of your publications in SCI journals and other referred journals
Any other documents that may be specified or required

FAQ’s

How long does the Swarnajayanti Fellowship last?

The fellowship is granted for a period not exceeding five years.

What kind of support does the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme offer?

The scheme provides awardees with a monthly fellowship of ₹25,000, in addition to their regular salary from their parent institute. Funding for research-related expenses is also considered through the Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) as per their norms.

Can I apply for this fellowship if I'm already receiving another government fellowship?

No, you cannot apply for the Swarnajayanti Fellowships if you are already drawing a fellowship from any other scheme funded by the Government of India.

What is the age requirement to apply for the Swarnajayanti Fellowships?

You must be between 30 and 40 years of age to be eligible for this fellowship.

Is there an offline application option for this scheme?

No, applications are accepted only online. You do not need to send any hard copies.

What is the main purpose of the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme?

The scheme aims to commemorate India's 50th year of Independence by providing special support to young, accomplished scientists. It enables them to pursue basic research in cutting-edge areas of science and technology with freedom and flexibility.

Which government department manages the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme?

The scheme is implemented by the Department of Science & Technology, which falls under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India.

What are the key conditions for eligibility under this fellowship?

To be eligible, you must be an Indian national with a permanent position in a recognized Indian research or academic institution. You need a Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, or Medicine, be active in a frontier research area with a strong publication record, and not be receiving another government fellowship. Your institution must also commit to supporting the project.

How are the Swarnajayanti Fellows selected?

Selection involves multiple stages. Applications are first screened by Subject Committees. Shortlisted candidates then present their work to a National Core Committee of Experts. Finally, an Empowered Committee of Secretaries makes the final selection based on the core committee's recommendations. The focus is on innovative and original research in science and technology.