VAIBHAV Fellowship connects overseas Indian scientists with premier Indian research institutions to strengthen global scientific collaboration. This scheme gives financial support and research help so experts can work in India for up to two months every year over a three-year period.
Vaishvik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship - Introduction
VAIBHAV Fellowship encourages strong collaboration between scientists of the Indian Diaspora and Indian Higher Educational Institutions, universities, and public funded scientific institutions. This scheme is run by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) handles the day to day administration of the fellowship through the International Cooperation Division of DST.
As a fellow, you will pick a host Indian institution to carry out your research. You may spend up to two months each year in India, for a maximum of three years. The scheme strengthens India's research ecosystem through knowledge exchange and expert guidance.
Research proposals can be submitted in these areas:
- Quantum Technologies: Quantum communication, computing, sensing, and materials.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI foundations, signal processing, robotics, and societal applications.
- Computational Sciences: High-performance computing, atmospheric sciences, and cyber-physical systems.
- Data Sciences: Data infrastructure, security, privacy, and education.
- Photonics: Optical imaging, bio-photonics, devices, and nano-photonics.
- Energy: Sustainable mobility, advanced fossil technologies, and future fuels.
- Electronics and Semiconductor: Materials, processing, and system design.
- Communication Technologies: 5G and beyond, IoT/CPS, and futuristic networks.
- Aerospace Technologies: Design, propulsion, flight integrity, and unmanned systems.
- Materials and Processing: Structural, functional, and catalytic materials.
- Earth Sciences: Atmospheric, polar, and ocean sciences.
- Environmental Sciences: Air, water, soil management, and climate change.
- Advanced Manufacturing: IoT, digital manufacturing, and robotics.
- Health and Medical Sciences: Precision health, remote rural healthcare, and biomedical devices.
- Pharmaceuticals and Bio-Technology: Biotherapeutics, industrial biotechnology, and drug delivery.
- Agricultural Sciences: Precision and climate-smart agriculture, fisheries, and genome editing.
- Social Sciences for SDGs: Community, societal, and socio-economic development approaches.
- Management: Academic collaborations, R&D output mechanisms, and entrepreneurship.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | VAIshwik BHArtiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship |
|---|---|
| Level | Central |
| Scheme For | Infra |
| Beneficiary States | All |
| Category | Education & Learning, Science, IT & Communications |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, University/Institution |
| Sub Category | Research & Development |
| Benefit Type | Composite |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Science and Technology |
| Nodal Department | Department of Science & Technology |
| Implementing Agency | Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology |
| Tags | VAIBHAV, Fellowship, Fellow, Research, Science |
Benefits
Emoluments for the Fellowship
You will get strong support so your research work stays productive:
| Benefit Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Amount | Approx. ₹4,00,000 per month |
| Duration | Minimum 1 month to maximum 2 months per year |
| Total Period | Maximum 3 years |
| International Travel | Business class ticket once per year |
| Accommodation | Up to ₹7,500 per day in guest house or hotel |
| Contingency Grant | ₹1,00,000 per year |
You are also eligible for domestic travel in economy class to visit up to two academic or scientific institutes every year. The full grant is released to the Indian host institute, which manages the payment of your fellowship and provides the promised support.
Institutional Financial Support
Host institutions get up to ₹5 lakh per year for three years to help your research. This fund covers:
- Consumables and accessories
- Contingency expenses
- Institutional overheads
Eligibility
Eligibility for VAIBHAV Fellow
You can apply if you belong to the Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) category and live abroad. You must hold a Ph.D., M.D., M.S., or M.Tech from a recognized university and be actively involved in research. You should also meet one of these criteria:
- Worked for at least 5 years in a top-200 QS World University Ranking institute (subject-wise) in a regular or tenure-track position.
- Worked for at least 5 years in a reputed overseas industry or research laboratory (not as a Ph.D. or post-doctoral fellow).
Eligibility for Host Indian Institutions
Institutes are eligible if they are a higher educational institution or university ranked in the top 200 by NIRF, hold a NAAC 'A+' grade or higher, or are a public funded scientific institute or national laboratory.
Application Process
Online Application Process
Applications are submitted only through the online portal of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Follow these steps:
STEP 1 - Visit the official DST website or the e-PMS portal to download the required proposal formats.
STEP 2 - Register yourself using your active email ID to create login details.
STEP 3 - You will get an automated email with your ID and a link to set a password.
STEP 4 - After logging in, fill the application form and upload all required documents.
STEP 5 - The host scientist must apply on your behalf, because funds are sent directly to the host institution.
Important Note: Keep your Temporary Project Number (TPN) safe for all future reference. Applications must include a consent letter from the head of the host institute to be considered. For any queries, contact: Mr. Vinod Kumar Sharma, Under Secretary, VAIBHAV Cell, Technology Bhawan, New Delhi 110016. You may also email vaibhav-india@gov.in.
Documents
Prepare the following documents to support your online application:
- Statement of Purpose (max one page)
- Detailed bio-data in the prescribed format (max two pages)
- List of research publications from the last three years, including impact factors
- Copy of your valid passport
- Proof of highest academic qualification
- Experience certificate
- Formal undertaking by the applicant
- No-objection certificate from your parent institute
- Consent letter from the host institute in India
- CV of the host scientist (max two pages)
- List of recent publications of the host scientist
References
For further reading and official rules, please refer to the following:
- Official Fellowship Guidelines
- Department of Science and Technology (DST) Website
- Apply via e-PMS Portal
FAQ's
What is VAIBHAV Fellowship?
This fellowship is a main scheme by the DST, Government of India, made to build bridges between Indian diaspora scientists and Indian research institutions.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
You may collaborate with your chosen Indian institution for up to two months per year, for a total of three years.
Are there specific research areas?
Yes, research priority is given to fields like Quantum Technologies, AI/ML, Energy, Aerospace, and Health Sciences, among others mentioned in the rules.
How much is the monthly stipend?
You will get a fellowship amount of approximately ₹4,00,000 (equal to USD 5000) per month for the duration of your stay.
Is accommodation covered?
Yes, you are eligible for fully furnished accommodation in a guest house or hotel, up to ₹7,500 per day.
What happens if my application is sent offline?
Physical or email based applications are not accepted. You should only use the official e-PMS portal for your submission.
Who receives the grant funds?
The grant is released to the Indian host institute, which then arranges your fellowship and research expenses.