1. What is the Ramanujan Fellowship?
The Ramanujan Fellowship is a high-prestige research fund designed for brilliant Indian scientists and engineers from all over the world to take up scientific research positions in India. Unlike undergraduate welfare scholarships, this fellowship focuses on cutting-edge research in Science, Engineering, Tech, and Medicine.
๐ก Researcher Insight: The Host Institution Challenge
Finding a host institution is the single most critical step for the Ramanujan Fellowship. I've spoken with several applicants who had stellar publications but failed because the host institution didn't provide a clear **Host Institution Certificate** outlining the resources (lab space, equipment, office) they would provide to the fellow. Don't leave this for the last minute.
๐ Fellowship Summary 2026
| Fellowship Name | Ramanujan Fellowship (ANRF / National) |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | PhD Holders / Post-Doctoral Researchers |
| Monthly Grant | โน1,35,000 (Consolidated Fellowship amount) |
| Research Grant | โน7.00 Lakh per annum (Managed by host institution) |
| Primary Authority | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) |
2. Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility criteria may differ by state and academic year.
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must have a Ph.D. in Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or Medicine from a recognized university.
- Track Record: A proven high-level research publication record in high-impact international journals.
- Age Limit: Strictly 40 years or below at the time of nomination.
- Location: Scientists working abroad who wish to return to India are highly encouraged to apply.
3. Income Criteria
The Ramanujan Fellowship is **purely merit-based**. There are no family income restrictions or income certificates required for this application, as it is a professional research grant rather than a welfare-style scholarship.
4. Selection & Application Process
This is a highly competitive peer-reviewed process. It does not follow the standard Digital Gujarat or NSP student registration flow.
- Step 1: Prepare a detailed research proposal and identify a host institute in India.
- Step 2: Apply only through the official ANRF Online Portal (anrfonline.in).
- Step 3: Initial screening by a search-cum-selection committee.
- Step 4: Peer review of the research proposal for scientific validity and impact.
- Step 5: Final selection by the high-level Board.
5. Continuation & Monitoring
Continued support is subject to annual research progress reviews. Fellows must submit an **Annual Progress Report** and Statement of Expenditure (SE) to the board. It is not linked to semester exam results but to actual research milestones achieved.
6. Common Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I hold another job during the fellowship?
No. The Ramanujan Fellowship is a full-time assignment. You cannot hold any other regular position (teaching or research) that pays a salary while receiving this fellowship.
Q2: Is HRA provided extra on top of the โน1.35 Lakh stipend?
No. The โน1,35,000 per month is a consolidated amount, which includes the HRA component. You do not receive additional HRA. However, you can use the research grant for specific institutional overheads or negotiate accommodation with the host institute.
Q3: What if I want to move to another institution midway?
Transfer of fellowship is allowed only in exceptional circumstances and requires prior approval from ANRF and 'No Objection' certificates from both old and new host institutions.
Q4: Can OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) apply?
Yes, OCI cardholders are eligible to apply for the Ramanujan Fellowship to perform research in Indian institutions.
Q5: Is the contingency grant of โน7 Lakh per year taxable?
No, the research contingency grant is for research expenses (books, equipment, travel, consumables) and is managed by the institution. It is not personal income.
๐ Global Scientific Return
Over the last decade, the Ramanujan Fellowship has successfully brought back over 1,200 Indian scientists from premier international institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Oxford to contribute to India's R&D landscape.
๐ Official SERB / Fellowship Portal
For authentic guidelines and to submit your research proposal, visit the official Science and Engineering Research Board portal directly.
Visit Official SERB Portal โ