A Complete Guide on Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship

The Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship (RGNF) stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment in the realm of higher education in India. Launched by the University Grants Commission (UGC), this fellowship program is dedicated to supporting students from marginalised communities in pursuing research at the M.Phil. and Ph.D. levels. Named after the former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi, the fellowship is designed to eliminate financial barriers and foster academic excellence among underprivileged scholars. This article provides a detailed exploration of the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship, shedding light on its objectives, eligibility criteria, and the transformative impact it has on the academic landscape.

Objectives

1. Inclusive higher education: The primary objective of the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship is to promote inclusivity in higher education. By targeting students from scheduled castes (SC) and scheduled tribes (ST), the fellowship aims to address historical disparities and provide equitable opportunities for advanced studies.
2. Encouraging research: RGNF places a strong emphasis on fostering research and innovation. The fellowship supports scholars engaged in M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs, encouraging them to contribute valuable insights to their respective fields.
3. Financial assistance: One of the key goals of the fellowship is to alleviate the financial burden on deserving students. RGNF provides financial assistance for various components, including tuition fees, maintenance allowance, contingency grant, and escort and reader assistance.

Eligibility criteria

1. Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes: The fellowship is exclusively available to students belonging to scheduled castes (SC) and scheduled tribes (ST). This targeted approach ensures that those who have historically faced socio-economic disadvantages receive support.
2. Qualifying examinations: To be eligible, candidates must have secured admission to an M.Phil. or Ph.D. program in a recognised university or institution. They should have qualified in the relevant national-level eligibility tests, such as the National Eligibility Test (NET) or the State Level Eligibility Test (SLET).
3. Annual family income: Applicants' family income should not exceed the prescribed threshold, ensuring that the fellowship reaches those who genuinely need financial assistance.

Components of the fellowship

1. Tuition fees and other allowances: The fellowship covers all tuition fees and provides maintenance allowances, including hostel and other incidental expenses. This relieves scholars from the financial burden associated with academic pursuits.
2. Contingency grant: A contingency grant is provided to scholars to support their research-related expenses, including books, stationery, fieldwork, and other miscellaneous costs.
3. Escort/reader assistance: For scholars with visual or physical disabilities, the fellowship provides assistance in the form of an escort and reader allowance to facilitate their academic pursuits.

Impact on higher education

1. Widening research participation: RGNF has played a pivotal role in increasing the participation of students from marginalised communities in advanced research. This contributes to the diversification of perspectives and enriches the academic discourse.
2. Breaking financial barriers: By offering comprehensive financial support, the fellowship breaks down economic barriers that may prevent talented students from pursuing higher studies. It ensures that financial constraints do not impede academic aspirations.
3. Promoting social inclusion: The Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship is a crucial tool for promoting social inclusion. It addresses historical injustices by creating pathways for underprivileged students to actively engage in higher education and research.
4. Enhancing academic excellence: The support provided by RGNF empowers scholars to focus on their academic pursuits without the distraction of financial worries. This nurturing environment contributes to enhanced academic performance and the production of high-quality research.

The Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship stands as a testament to the commitment of the Indian government and the University Grants Commission to creating an inclusive and equitable higher education landscape. By providing financial assistance and support for advanced research to students from scheduled castes and scheduled tribes, the fellowship not only transforms individual lives but also contributes to the enrichment and diversity of academic scholarship in the country. As it continues to empower marginalised scholars, the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship serves as a catalyst for positive change and social upliftment in the realm of higher education.