In an exciting development for research scholars in India, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has recently announced a significant hike in fellowship stipends for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Senior Research Fellowship (SRF), and Research Associates (RA) across all three levels. This revision comes in response to long-standing demands from scholars and aims to provide better support for their research endeavors. In this article, iLovePhD delves into the details of this fellowship hike and explores the reactions it has generated within the scholarly community.
Discover the recent hike in fellowship stipends for JRF, SRF, and Research Associates. Learn about the revised stipend amounts, scholar reactions, and the impact on research scholars in India.
Understanding the JRF SRF Fellowship Hike 2023
The Department of Science and Technology has responded to the persistent calls for a stipend hike by granting approval for increased emoluments for JRF, SRF, and RAs engaged in research and development activities. Effective from January 1, 2023, the revised fellowship stipends are as follows:
- JRF: Rs 37,000 per month
- SRF: Rs 42,000 per month
- Research Associate 1: Rs 58,000 per month
- Research Associate 2: Rs 61,000 per month
- Research Associate 3: Rs 63,000 per month
Comparing the Hike:
Compared to the last revision in 2019, the fellowship stipends have seen a substantial increase. The JRF stipend has risen by 19%, while the SRF stipend has received a 20% boost. Research Associates at various levels have experienced stipend hikes ranging from 16% to 24%, demonstrating the commitment to address the concerns of research personnel engaged in R&D programs.
Mixed Reactions from Scholars:
The revised fellowship stipends have generated a range of reactions within the scholarly community. While many scholars welcomed the move as a positive step towards recognizing their efforts and supporting their research endeavors, others expressed disappointment when comparing the stipends received in other countries, particularly the United States.
One Twitter user highlighted the difference, stating, “JRF fellowships pay Rs 4.2L/year tax-free, which is 1.5 times the per capita income. Contrast this to the US, where the typical PhD stipend of $24K is approximately 0.33 times the per capita income. Not sure what to make of it.”
| Fellowship | Current Emoluments (applicable w.e.f 01.01.2019) | Revised Emoluments (applicable w.e.f 01.01.2023) |
| JRF | Rs 31,000 | Rs 37,000 |
| SRF | Rs 35,000 | Rs 42,000 |
| RA-1 | Rs 47,000 | Rs 58,000 |
| RA-2 | Rs 49,000 | Rs 61,000 |
| RA-3 | Rs 54,000 | Rs 67,000 |
On the other hand, some PhD candidates voiced their concerns about the magnitude of the hike, calling for a minimum stipend of Rs 60,000 for JRF. They argued that in a pay system where fresh faculty recruits receive around Rs 80,000 per month, a higher stipend for JRF is essential and would necessitate a more comprehensive overhaul of the system.
The recent fellowship hike for JRF, SRF, and Research Associates reflects the government’s recognition of the valuable contributions made by research scholars and their crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge. While the revised stipends address some concerns, the ongoing discussion around stipend disparities and the adequacy of the hike highlights the need for continued dialogue and reforms.
Aspiring researchers can now pursue their passion with greater financial support, paving the way for enhanced research outcomes and a thriving scientific community in India.
Also Read: PhD Funding Schemes in India 2023
