Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme 2026

This scheme provides special assistance and support to a select group of young Indian scientists with a Read More... strong track record, enabling them to conduct fundamental research in cutting-edge areas of science and technology. Read less

Details

To mark India's 50th year of Independence, the government introduced the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme. It's designed to boost innovation by supporting young scientists who are already making significant contributions in their fields.

What Is This Scheme?

The Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme aims to empower promising young Indian scientists. It provides them with the necessary support and freedom to undertake basic research in advanced areas of science and technology. The selected fellows can pursue their research with flexibility in how they spend funds, as long as it aligns with their approved research plan. The projects chosen are expected to be innovative and have the potential to significantly impact R&D.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This fellowship is for bright young Indian scientists who are actively engaged in research and have a good academic record. They should be working in recognized Indian academic or research institutions and have a proven history of significant research contributions.

Why This Scheme Is Important

The scheme is crucial for fostering scientific advancement in India. By providing financial and operational freedom to talented young researchers, it encourages them to explore groundbreaking ideas and push the boundaries of knowledge. This initiative directly supports the growth of frontier science and technology within the country.

Objective

This scheme provides special assistance and support to a select group of young Indian scientists with a strong track record, enabling them to conduct fundamental research in cutting-edge areas of 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

Applicants must be Indian citizens.
They must hold a permanent position in a recognized Indian academic or research institution.
A Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, or Medicine is required.
Applicants should not be receiving financial support from any other fellowship scheme funded by the Government of India.
Scientists should have a strong record of research, demonstrated through publications, patents, recognition from the scientific community, and awards in their field.
The research should be in a frontier area of science and engineering.
The applicant's institution must agree to manage the project financially and operationally for the entire five-year duration of the fellowship.
Applicants must be between 30 and 40 years of age.

How To Apply

Interested candidates can apply online only. Visit the DST e-PMS Portal at https://onlinedst.gov.in/ to find detailed information and submit your application.

Official Sources

For more details and application submission, please refer to the official portal.

Documents Required

Aadhaar Card (as identity proof)
Passport-size photograph
Proof of age
Educational qualification certificates
Proof of current employment and position
Details of professional recognition, awards, and fellowships received
Complete list of publications in SCI journals and other referred journals
Any other documents as specified in the application form.

FAQ’s

How long does the fellowship last?

The Swarnajayanti Fellowship is awarded for a period of up to five years.

What financial support can I expect from this scheme?

Selected fellows get a monthly fellowship of ₹25,000 on top of their salary. The Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) also provides funding for project-related expenses, including research materials and equipment, following SERB's guidelines.

Is there an age limit for applying?

Yes, the fellowship is open to scientists who are between 30 and 40 years of age.

Can I apply if I'm already getting another government fellowship?

No, you cannot apply if you are currently receiving a fellowship from any other scheme of the Government of India.

What makes a research project suitable for this fellowship?

The research project should involve innovative ideas in frontier areas of science and technology and should have the potential to make a significant impact on research and development in its field.

What qualifications do I need to apply?

You need to have a Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, or Medicine. You must also be an Indian national working in a recognized Indian academic or research institution.

How is the selection done?

The selection process involves multiple stages. Applications are screened by Subject Committees, followed by presentations by shortlisted candidates. A National Core Committee of Experts then reviews these presentations to make final recommendations to an Empowered Committee of Secretaries.

Do I need to send a hard copy of my application?

No, applications are accepted online only. There is no need to submit a physical copy of your application.

What is the main goal of the Swarnajayanti Fellowships Scheme?

This scheme was established to celebrate India's 50th Independence year. Its goal is to provide substantial support to bright young scientists, allowing them to conduct pioneering research in cutting-edge areas of science and technology with freedom and flexibility.

What kind of contributions are considered for this fellowship?

Applicants should have a strong track record, including significant research publications and/or patents. Peer recognition within the scientific community, along with awards and accolades, are also important factors.