AI SummaryArchaeological Research Fellowship Scheme provides financial assistance of up to ₹40,000 per month to eligible Post-Graduate and PhD scholars for 24 months to support research activities focused on the archaeology of Goa and the west coast.
Archaeological Research Fellowship Scheme - Introduction
Archaeological Research Fellowship Scheme encourages scholars to undertake research activities focused on the archaeology of Goa and the west coast by using primary archaeological sources. Department of Archaeology, Government of Goa runs this scheme to support academic growth and build a stronger understanding of the historical heritage of the state.
As of August 2026, the scheme is in force under the notification dated 14 August 2025, with a validity of two years. It awards four research fellowships, divided into two junior and two senior levels, each lasting for 24 months. The main aim is to build a strong research culture and encourage interdisciplinary study within colleges, universities and other educational research organizations.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Archaeological Research Fellowship Scheme |
|---|---|
| Level | State |
| Scheme for | Individual |
| State | Goa |
| Category | Education & Learning |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Nodal Department | Archives & Archaeology Department |
| DBT Scheme | No |
Benefits
Eligible scholars receive financial support based on their selection category. The fellowships are designed to help research work over a 24-month period.
| Category | Monthly Fellowship |
|---|---|
| Junior Category | ₹25,000 |
| Senior Category | ₹40,000 |
Project outcomes include bringing unexplored archaeological treasures to light, creating a complete database of Goa's heritage, and encouraging visits to protected monuments. The work also helps raise awareness about regional historical sites. Scholars need to submit half-yearly progress reports and provide two hard copies plus one soft copy of the final project within 30 days of completing the fellowship. The finished project becomes the exclusive property of the Department of Archaeology.
This fellowship can only be received once in a lifetime for each category. After submitting a project, a scholar is not eligible for other Department fellowships for five years. Grace periods do not count toward extended financial assistance.
Eligibility
To qualify, a candidate must meet the criteria based on whether applying for the Junior or Senior Research Fellowship.
Junior Research Fellowship
- Completed post-graduation, that is M.A. in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, History or Indology.
- Up to 35 years of age on the application closing date.
- A Goan scholar needs 15 years of residence in Goa, while an Indian citizen can also apply.
- Must hold Indian citizenship.
Senior Research Fellowship
- Completed a Doctorate in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, History or Indology.
- Up to 45 years of age on the application closing date.
- A Goan scholar needs 15 years of residence in Goa, while an Indian citizen can also apply.
- Must hold Indian citizenship.
Exclusions
The fellowship cannot be received more than once in a lifetime for any single category. A scholar is also not eligible for any other fellowship offered by the Department for five years following the submission of a previous project.
Application Process
Applications are invited through official press advertisements. The last date for the most recent round of applications was 25 September 2025, with a further round closing on 8 December 2025.
STEP 1 - Go through the scheme details available on the official State portal of the Government of Goa at goa.gov.in and download the application form.
STEP 2 - Fill in the application form along with a detailed research proposal and self attested supporting documents as mentioned in the official advertisement.
STEP 3 - Submit the filled application to the Department of Archaeology, Mala, Panaji, Goa before the closing date.
STEP 4 - A Monitoring and Reviewing Committee examines the proposals in its periodic meetings and selects the best candidates. Once selected, the decision is final.
STEP 5 - Submit half-yearly progress reports regularly. On completing the 24-month research, submit the final report within 30 days. Any grievance may be taken up with the Minister of Archaeology, whose decision on implementation matters is final.
Documents
Prepare the following documents for the application:
- Post-Graduation or Doctorate degree certificates in the relevant field, that is Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, History or Indology.
- Proof of age to confirm the candidate is within the specified limits.
- Proof of residence in Goa for the last 15 years, if applying as a Goan scholar.
- Proof of Indian citizenship.
- A detailed research proposal for committee evaluation.
During the fellowship, half-yearly progress reports and the final project report in the required formats, that is two hard copies and one soft copy, also need to be submitted.
References
View Official Scheme Guidelines
FAQ's
How long will I receive financial assistance under this program?
The fellowship is given for a fixed period of 24 months in both junior and senior categories.
What is the residence requirement for Goan scholars?
A Goan scholar must provide proof of 15 years of residence in Goa.
Are project extensions considered for financial assistance?
No, any grace period or extension granted for the research project does not get extra financial assistance.
What are the academic requirements for the senior category?
A Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology, History or Indology is required.
What is the age limit for the junior category?
The candidate must be 35 years of age or younger on the application closing date.
What citizenship is required to apply?
Indian citizenship is required to be eligible for the research fellowships.
What is the stipend for the junior category?
Selected junior fellows receive a stipend of ₹25,000 per month.
What is the stipend for the senior category?
Selected senior fellows receive a stipend of ₹40,000 per month.
Can I receive the fellowship more than once?
The fellowship can only be received once in a lifetime per category.
What is the age limit for the senior category?
The candidate must be 45 years of age or younger on the application closing date.
When can I apply for another fellowship after project submission?
A scholar must wait 5 years from the date of the previous project submission before applying for another departmental fellowship.
Does my research proposal need to focus on a specific area?
While the department reviews different proposals, research focused on the archaeology of Goa is strongly encouraged.