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CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship, Stipend, Tenure, Objectives, Assessment

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship promotes academic excellence and research capabilities in various scientific fields, supporting talented individuals in pursuing PhD degrees through financial aid and mentorship.
authorImageDr. Kar18 Nov, 2024
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CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship : The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) provides research fellowships through its JRF-GATE scheme to promote academic excellence and research capabilities in various scientific fields. This article will detail the objectives, eligibility criteria, selection procedure, and reservations associated with the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship program. Below is a detailed overview of the fellowship, covering its objectives, eligibility, stipend, selection procedure, and termination criteria.

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Overview

The following table provides a comprehensive overview of the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship, outlining important aspects such as duration, stipend, selection procedure, and conditions concerning progress and termination.
CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Overview
Fellowship Duration
  • Total of 5 years.
  • Expected to complete PhD within this period.
Stipend and Tenure
  • Junior Research Fellowship (JRF-GATE) : ₹31,000/month (first two years) + ₹20,000 annual contingency.
  • Senior Research Fellowship (SRF-GATE) : ₹35,000/month (3rd year onward).
Selection Procedure
  • Shortlisting based on qualifications, GATE/GPAT score, and interview.
  • Formal award after document verification.
  • Each participating CSIR lab can award up to 5 fellowships/year.
Contingency Grant
  • ₹20,000 annually for research-related expenses.
  • ₹3,000 lump sum upon PhD thesis submission in e-form.
Yearly Progress Review
  • Fellows must submit annual progress reports and financial statements.
  • Failure to meet expectations can result in termination.
Termination Conditions
  • Non-submission of annual reports within 6 months.
  • Unsatisfactory research progress.

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Objectives

The CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Program is centered on several key objectives aimed at enhancing the research landscape within India. These objectives include:
  • Promotion of Academic Excellence : The fellowship is geared towards fostering high-level scientific research across various disciplines in CSIR laboratories. By supporting talented individuals, the program aims to elevate the quality of research and innovation within the scientific community.
  • Encouragement of Postgraduate Research : The program actively promotes advanced research among GATE-qualified engineering graduates and GPAT-qualified pharmaceutical graduates. By motivating these graduates to engage in research leading to PhD degrees, the fellowship contributes significantly to the scientific and technological advancement of the country.
  • Collaboration with Experts : Awardees of the fellowship will benefit from the opportunity to work alongside seasoned CSIR scientists. This collaboration not only nurtures their research capabilities but also ensures access to cutting-edge research and development facilities, thereby enhancing their learning and exploration in their respective fields.
  • Building a Skilled Workforce : The program aims to cultivate a pool of highly skilled researchers and scientists who can contribute to academia, industry, and research institutions across the globe, thereby strengthening India’s position in the global scientific community.

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Duration

The CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship is designed to provide financial support to candidates pursuing their PhD degrees in scientific research. The fellowship is awarded for a total duration of five years, during which the awardee is expected to conduct research and complete their doctoral studies. Successful completion of the PhD within the five-year period is essential to fully benefit from the fellowship and contribute to the advancement of science and technology in India.

CSIR JRF GATE Stipend and Tenure

The following table provides the key details regarding stipends, allowances, upgradation criteria, and tenure for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF-GATE) and Senior Research Fellowship (SRF-GATE) programs. It provides insights into the financial support available and the criteria for fellowship upgradation, ensuring clarity for prospective candidates.
CSIR JRF GATE Stipend and Tenure
Fellowship Type Details
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF-GATE)
Stipend ₹31,000 per month for the first two years.
Contingency Grant ₹20,000 annually provided to the host institution.
Tenure Completion
  • Joining on the 1st of a month: Tenure ends on the last day of the previous month.
  • Joining on any other day: Tenure ends on the last day of the joining month.
Senior Research Fellowship (SRF-GATE)
Stipend ₹35,000 per month during the 3rd and subsequent years.
Upgradation Criteria Upgrade to SRF after two years as JRF based on research progress assessed by an Expert Committee.
Committee Composition The committee includes the guide, the Head of the Department, and an external expert not below the rank of Associate Professor.
Conditions for Upgradation
  • Research publications are expected by the end of the third year.
  • If research progress is unsatisfactory, the fellowship may be terminated or extended at the JRF stipend rate.
Maximum Tenure Five years (JRF + SRF combined).

CSIR JRF GATE Award of Fellowship and Grant Release

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research is dedicated to supporting research scholars through the Junior Research Fellowship program. This fellowship is awarded based on the GATE examination, and the following outlines the process for formal award, payment mechanisms, and document requirements.
  • Formal Award : Fellowship awarded via a formal letter to the institution.
  • Payment Mode : Stipend is disbursed monthly through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Annual contingency is released to the host institution.
  • First Payment : Made upon submission of the joining report and essential documents (e.g., birth certificate, caste certificate, academic credentials, etc.).
  • Subsequent Payments : Released on receipt of attendance records and signed bills.

CSIR JRF GATE Contingency Grant

The CSIR JRF GATE Contingency Grant is an essential financial resource designed to support research activities for Junior Research Fellows (JRFs). Here are the key features and guidelines for utilizing this grant:
  • Utilization : Can be used for research purposes such as purchasing books or other research-related materials.
  • Carry Forward : Unspent amounts can be carried forward, but the total expenditure must not exceed ₹20,000 annually.
  • Additional Benefits : ₹3,000 (lump sum) upon submission of the PhD thesis in e-form.

CSIR JRF GATE Eligibility Criteria

The following table outlines the eligibility criteria for candidates interested in applying for the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship. This includes details on eligible and ineligible candidates, as well as age limit specifications:
CSIR JRF GATE Eligibility Criteria
Category Criteria
Eligible Candidates
  • For Engineering Graduates: BE/B. Tech degree in an engineering discipline and possess a valid GATE score.
  • For Pharmaceutical Graduates: B.Pharm degree and possess a valid GPAT score.
  • Special Consideration for Biotechnology Candidates: B.Tech in Biotechnology with a minimum 85.00 percentile in GATE.
Age Limit
  • Upper age limit is set at 28 years with the following relaxations:
  • Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes, Women, and Physically Handicapped Applicants: Relaxable up to 5 years.
  • OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Candidates: Relaxable up to 3 years.

CSIR JRF GATE Selection Procedure

The selection for the CSIR JRF GATE fellowship is an extensive process guided by the participating CSIR laboratories. Below is a detailed overview of the selection procedure, fellowship allocation, and eligible institutions for PhD registration.

Process of Selection

  • The selection process for the CSIR JRF-GATE fellowship is conducted by the participating CSIR laboratories.
  • Candidates are shortlisted based on their qualifications, GATE/GPAT scores, and an interview process conducted by a committee formed by the laboratory director.
  • A formal award letter will be issued after all necessary documents, such as the GATE/GPAT scorecard, biodata, educational certificates, and caste certificate, are scrutinized by HRDG.

Fellowship Allocation

  • Each CSIR laboratory participating in the Integrated M.Tech-PhD program under AcSIR can award up to 5 JRF-GATE fellowships.
  • The total number of JRF-GATE fellowships awarded per year is capped at 120. If this number is not met, the remaining fellowships may be allocated in subsequent years, subject to CSIR’s approval.

Eligible Institutions for PhD Registration

Candidates selected for the JRF-GATE fellowship can register for a PhD in various institutions, including AcSIR or other recognized institutions, as long as they meet the necessary criteria.

CSIR JRF GATE Assessment and Progress Review

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research conducts an annual review of research progress for Junior Research Fellows (JRF) enrolled in the GATE program. The assessment ensures that fellows are adequately advancing in their research projects and meeting the standards set by the CSIR.

Yearly Assessment

  • Research progress is reviewed annually using a prescribed format.
  • Fellows must submit a progress report, utilization certificate, and a statement of expenditure to ensure the continuation of grants.

Upgradation to SRF

  • Assessment involves qualitative and quantitative criteria, including publications.
  • Failure to meet expectations may result in fellowship termination.

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship Termination

It is important to maintain certain standards and fulfill the necessary requirements to remain eligible for the fellowship. The following conditions may lead to the termination of the JRF fellowship:
  • Non-Submission of Annual Reports : It is mandatory for fellows to submit their annual progress reports within a stipulated period of six months. Failure to submit these reports on time may result in the immediate termination of the fellowship. Annual reports are crucial for evaluating the progress of research work and ensuring accountability.
  • Unsatisfactory Progress : The assessment committee will periodically review the progress of each fellow. If a fellow’s research work is deemed unsatisfactory based on the evaluation criteria set by the committee, the fellowship can be terminated. This assessment considers various factors, including the originality of research, adherence to timelines, and overall contributions to the field.

CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship FAQs

What is the duration of the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship?

The fellowship is offered for a total of 5 years. Fellows are expected to complete their PhD within this duration.

Who is eligible to apply for the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship?

Eligible candidates must have a BE/B.Tech degree in engineering with a valid GATE score or a B.Pharm degree with a valid GPAT score. Candidates with B.Tech in Biotechnology who have scored a minimum of 85.00 percentile in GATE are also eligible. 

What is the CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship?

The CSIR JRF GATE Fellowship is a program by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research that provides financial support to GATE/GPAT-qualified engineering and pharmaceutical graduates to pursue PhD research in CSIR laboratories.

What happens if a fellow fails to meet annual progress requirements?

If a fellow fails to submit their annual reports within six months or demonstrates unsatisfactory research progress, their fellowship may be terminated based on the assessment conducted by the review committee.
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