Contents
Introduction
The CIFE Institutional Fellowship is a significant initiative by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to support students pursuing advanced studies in fisheries science. This fellowship provides financial assistance to eligible candidates enrolled in Master’s (M.F.Sc.) and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs at the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE). By alleviating financial burdens, the scheme enables students to focus on their research and contribute to the development of the fisheries sector.
What is the CIFE Institutional Fellowship?
The CIFE Institutional Fellowship offers monthly stipends and annual contingency grants to students enrolled in M.F.Sc. and Ph.D. programs at CIFE. The fellowship aims to promote higher education and research in fisheries science by providing financial support to deserving candidates.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The fellowship provides the following financial benefits:
- M.F.Sc. Students:
- Monthly stipend: ₹5,040 for two years
- Annual contingency grant: ₹6,000
- Ph.D. Students:
- Monthly stipend: ₹7,000 for three years
- Annual contingency grant: ₹10,000
The contingency grant can be utilized for purchasing essential items like books, chemicals, and equipment, as well as covering travel expenses related to research activities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CIFE Institutional Fellowship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- For M.F.Sc. Program:
- Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field under the 10+2+4 system
- Minimum 60% marks or OGPA of 6.50 out of 10.00 (55% marks or OGPA of 6.00 out of 10.00 for SC/ST candidates)
- For Ph.D. Program:
- B.F.Sc. & M.F.Sc. (4+2 years) or B.Sc. & M.Sc. (3 years) from CIFE (till 1995)
- Minimum OGPA of 7.5 out of 10.00 for General/OBC candidates (7.00 out of 10.00 for SC/ST candidates)
- Alternatively, D.F.Sc. from CIFE with a Bachelor’s degree in biological science and two years of experience in fisheries development work after obtaining D.F.Sc.
Application Process
Interested candidates can apply for the CIFE Institutional Fellowship through the official myScheme portal. The application process involves the following steps:
- Visit the myScheme portal.
- Check your eligibility using the provided tool.
- Register or sign in to your account.
- Fill out the application form with the required details.
- Upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the application.
Ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete to avoid any delays in the application process.
Importance of the Fellowship
The CIFE Institutional Fellowship plays a crucial role in promoting advanced education and research in fisheries science. By providing financial support, the fellowship enables students to pursue their academic goals without the burden of financial constraints. This, in turn, contributes to the development of the fisheries sector by producing skilled professionals and researchers.
The CIFE Institutional Fellowship is not just a financial aid program—it’s a stepping stone for students who aspire to make a difference in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. Fisheries play a vital role in India’s economy, food security, and rural livelihoods. As the country works towards sustainable and scientific fishery practices, there is a growing demand for well-trained professionals and researchers in this domain. This fellowship directly contributes to fulfilling that need.
By covering essential academic and research expenses, the fellowship ensures that talented students—regardless of their economic background—can continue their education without compromise. For Ph.D. scholars, the support allows them to focus deeply on impactful research, contributing to innovations in fish breeding, disease control, aquaculture management, and environmental conservation.
Moreover, the scheme helps build human resource capacity in line with the government’s Blue Revolution and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. It aligns with national goals of doubling farmers’ incomes and enhancing India’s fish production capabilities. In short, this fellowship is not just a personal benefit; it serves the broader mission of national development.
Conclusion
The CIFE Institutional Fellowship is an excellent opportunity for aspiring fisheries science students to receive financial support for their higher education. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply and take full advantage of this scheme to further their academic and professional careers in the fisheries sector.
For more information and to apply, visit the official myScheme page.
