Contents
Introduction
The ICAR Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) is a prestigious program initiated by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to support students pursuing Ph.D. degrees in agricultural sciences. This fellowship aims to encourage talented individuals to contribute to agricultural research and development in India. In this guide, we’ll explore the details of the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and more.
What is the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship?
The ICAR Senior Research Fellowship is awarded to candidates who have completed their Master’s degree and wish to pursue a Ph.D. in agricultural sciences. The fellowship provides financial assistance to selected candidates, enabling them to focus on their research without financial constraints.
Benefits of the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship
The fellowship offers the following financial benefits:
- Monthly Stipend:
- For disciplines other than Veterinary Sciences: ₹8,640 per month
- For Veterinary Sciences: ₹12,000 per month
- Contingency Grant:
- ₹6,000 per annum for all disciplines
These funds can be utilized for purchasing essential research materials, books, and covering travel expenses related to data collection.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification:
- Completed a Master’s degree in the relevant field with a minimum of 55% marks or an OGPA of 5.5/10.0.
- For SC/ST and Physically Handicapped (PH) candidates, a relaxation of 5% marks or equivalent OGPA is provided.
- Admission Requirement:
- Must secure admission to a Ph.D. program in an Agricultural University (AU) other than the one from where the Master’s degree was obtained.
- Entrance Examination:
- Selection is based on merit in the All India Competitive Entrance Examination conducted by ICAR.
Application Process
The application process for the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship involves the following steps:
- Check Eligibility:
- Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned above.
- Entrance Examination:
- Apply for and appear in the All India Competitive Entrance Examination conducted by ICAR.
- Admission to Ph.D. Program:
- Secure admission to a Ph.D. program in an eligible Agricultural University.
- Fellowship Award:
- Based on your performance in the entrance examination and admission to the Ph.D. program, the fellowship will be awarded.
Required Documents
While applying for the fellowship, ensure you have the following documents:
- Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate)
- Master’s degree certificate and mark sheets
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Admission letter from the Agricultural University
- Any other documents specified in the official notification
Importance of the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship
The ICAR Senior Research Fellowship is not just financial aid—it’s a stepping stone toward a meaningful career in agricultural research. In a country where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy, investing in scientific research can transform lives at the grassroots level. This fellowship empowers bright minds to dedicate themselves fully to solving real-world problems in agriculture, such as improving crop yield, enhancing soil health, or developing sustainable farming practices. It removes the financial burden that often prevents talented students from pursuing higher education, especially those from rural or economically weaker backgrounds.
By ensuring that researchers are supported during their Ph.D. journey, ICAR is nurturing the next generation of agricultural scientists who can bring innovative and impactful solutions to India’s fields. Every eligible student should view this fellowship not just as a scholarship, but as a national mission they can be part of—contributing to food security, farmer welfare, and rural prosperity. If you are passionate about research and committed to the cause of Indian agriculture, this is your call to action.
Conclusion
The ICAR Senior Research Fellowship is a golden opportunity for postgraduate students in agriculture and allied sciences to pursue a Ph.D. with full financial support. With a generous stipend and contingency grant, it allows scholars to focus entirely on their research and academic growth. This support can make a significant difference in shaping a successful career in agricultural research, teaching, or policy-making.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss out on this chance. Apply through the ICAR entrance examination, secure admission to a recognized agricultural university, and take a confident step toward a future where your research can impact the lives of millions. The future of Indian agriculture needs minds like yours—committed, curious, and capable. So, make the most of the ICAR Senior Research Fellowship and become a changemaker in the truest sense.
For more information and to apply, visit the official myScheme portal.
