Higher education in India is set to experience a transformative shift with the introduction of the Maulana Azad National Fellowship. This scheme is designed to promote academic progression among minority students pursuing full-time MPhil and PhD programmes in recognised Indian universities and research institutions.
Who Can Reach for the Stars?
To qualify for this prestigious fellowship, candidates must belong to one of the minority communities as stipulated under Section 2(c) of the National Minorities Commission Act, 1992. The applicant must be enrolled in a full-time MPhil or PhD programme in accordance with UGC regulations. This scheme disallows the simultaneous acceptance of financial benefits from other government or UGC sources. Importantly, the mandatory NET/SLET qualification for MPhil/PhD fellowships does not apply here, making the scheme more accessible.
Fellowship Allocation: Favouring Fairness and Gender Parity
The UGC will distribute a total of 756 fellowships each year (state-wise allocation as per agreement). Female scholars are particularly encouraged to apply, with 30% of fellowships reserved for them. If a shortfall occurs, it will be filled by male candidates from the same minority community. If the number of applicants exceeds the available fellowships, selection will be based on postgraduate examination scores. Specific provisions are in place to accommodate students with disabilities as per UGC standards.
Fellowship Tenure: Charting the Course of Research
The fellowship offers an integrated five-year programme for MPhil and PhD, ensuring sustained support for the scholars. This commendable initiative by the Indian Government seeks to redress educational imbalances and promote academic pursuits among the country’s minority communities.
This unique initiative indeed promises a brighter future for minority scholars in India, opening doors to academic excellence and fostering an environment of inclusivity in higher education.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER.