The VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 is an exciting opportunity for Indian-origin scientists and researchers living abroad. This prestigious program, initiated by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, aims to foster collaboration between Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) researchers and premier Indian research institutions.
With a lucrative stipend of $5,000 per month (INR 4,00,000) and multiple research benefits, this fellowship is an excellent chance for global scientists to contribute to India’s scientific advancements while also strengthening professional and academic ties.
VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 |
| Eligibility | NRI, OCI, PIO with a Ph.D./M.D./M.Tech degree & 5+ years of research experience |
| Stipend | $5,000 per month (INR 4,00,000) |
| Duration | 1-2 months per year, up to 3 years |
| Host Institutions | Indian Universities, NIRF-ranked institutes, NAAC ‘A+’ accredited institutions, or Publicly Funded Research Centers |
| Additional Benefits | Travel allowance, research contingency funds, accommodation support |
| Application Deadline | To be announced |
| Official Website | https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/vaibhav |
The VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 is a golden opportunity for Indian-origin scientists to contribute to India’s research ecosystem while receiving a generous $5,000/month stipend. If you have a strong research background and wish to collaborate with top Indian institutions, this fellowship could be your gateway to impactful scientific innovation.
What is the VAIBHAV Fellowship?
The Vaishvik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship is a government initiative to attract world-class talent and expertise from Indian-origin scientists working abroad. The program allows these researchers to collaborate with Indian institutions, facilitating knowledge exchange and enhancing India’s scientific ecosystem.
The program specifically seeks to bridge the knowledge gap by leveraging the expertise of Indian-origin researchers in various scientific and technological fields to elevate India’s research capacity.
The fellowship covers multiple scientific disciplines, including:
- Engineering & Technology
- Medical & Health Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Renewable Energy & Sustainable Development
- Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Sciences
This initiative plays a crucial role in building India’s research infrastructure by bringing back global expertise and fostering a culture of international collaboration.
Who Can Apply for VAIBHAV Fellowship? (Eligibility Criteria)
1. Nationality & Background
- Applicants must be Non-Resident Indians (NRI), Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), or Persons of Indian Origin (PIO).
- They must be actively employed in a foreign institution.
2. Academic & Professional Qualifications
- A Ph.D., M.D., M.S., or M.Tech degree from a recognized university.
- At least 5 years of research experience in a regular/tenured position at:
- A Top 200 QS World University-ranked institution (subject-wise), OR
- A reputed industry or research organization abroad.
3. Host Institution in India
Applicants must collaborate with an eligible Indian institution, such as:
- Universities ranked in the Top 200 of the NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework).
- Institutions with a NAAC ‘A+’ grade or above.
- Publicly funded scientific research institutions or national laboratories.
What Are the VAIBHAV Fellowship Benefits?
1. Financial Benefits
- $5,000 per month (INR 4,00,000) stipend
- International & domestic travel allowances
- Research contingency grants
- Accommodation support (subject to institutional provisions)
2. Professional Benefits
- Research collaboration opportunities with India’s top scientists
- Access to world-class Indian research infrastructure
- Strengthening academic ties between India & the global research community
- Enhanced exposure to India’s developing research & industrial ecosystem
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for VAIBHAV Fellowship
Step 1: Identify a Host Institution
- Find an Indian university, national lab, or research center that aligns with your expertise.
- Obtain a consent letter from the host institution.
Step 2: Register on the e-PMS Portal
- Go to DST e-PMS Portal.
- Click on New Principal Investigator (PI) Registration.
- Fill in personal and professional details.
Step 3: Submit Application
- Log in to the e-PMS portal and select “VAIBHAV Fellowship.”
- Upload required documents:
- Academic qualifications
- Research publications (last five years)
- Passport & citizenship proof
- Letter of support from the host institution
- Review and submit before the deadline.
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FAQs About VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025
1. Can post-doctoral researchers apply?
No, only researchers with 5+ years of experience in a tenured position are eligible.
2. Is there an age limit for the fellowship?
No specific age limit, but applicants should be actively working in a research role.
3. What kind of research is supported?
All STEM and social sciences disciplines are covered under this program.
4. Can I apply without an Indian host institution?
No, a host institution’s support letter is mandatory for application.
5. How long does the selection process take?
Typically, 2-3 months after the application deadline.
6. Can applicants collaborate with multiple Indian institutions?
Yes, provided they have a clear research proposal that benefits all participating institutions.
