VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 Research Grant: Apply Online Starts for Rs. 4 Lakh Fellowship Grant, Check Eligibility & Details

VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025: The Government of India, through the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has announced the VAIBHAV Fellowship Call-2025, aimed at enhancing institutional linkages between Indian-origin researchers working abroad and top Indian research institutions. This initiative is a significant step toward building long-term collaborative relationships in the fields of high-end science and technology.

Interested candidates can now apply online for this prestigious fellowship to receive a research grant of up to ₹4 lakh per month. The application window is open till May 30, 2025 (5:00 PM IST).

About VAIBHAV Fellowship

The VAIshwik BHArtiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship is designed for Non-Resident Indians (NRI), Persons of Indian Origin (PIO), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) who are currently engaged in research activities abroad. The fellowship encourages these professionals to work collaboratively with Indian Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), public-funded scientific institutes, and top universities.

The selected fellows will spend up to 2 months annually in India for three years, contributing through mentoring, collaborative research, and knowledge transfer.

Objectives of the Fellowship

• Foster institutional collaboration between the Indian diaspora and Indian HEIs
• Facilitate knowledge exchange and adoption of global best practices
• Support indigenous research capabilities through impactful partnerships
• Guide Indian students and researchers in emerging technologies

Important Dates for VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025

Candidates interested in the VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 must take note of the official timeline released by the Department of Science and Technology. The application process is time-bound, and submissions after the deadline will not be accepted.

How to Apply for VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025?

To apply for the VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025, candidates must follow the official application procedure set by the Department of Science and Technology. The entire process is conducted online, ensuring a streamlined and transparent submission.

• Applications must be submitted online only via the DST’s e-PMS portal.
• Proposals must be submitted by the host scientist in India on behalf of the applicant.
• Upon submission, a Temporary Project Number (TPN) will be generated for all future communication.

Note: Applications via email or postal mail will not be accepted.

VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025: Apply Online Link

To begin the application process for the VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025, eligible candidates must access the official online submission portal. All proposals must be submitted through the designated platform by the host scientist in India.

VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 Benefits

• Monthly Fellowship Grant: ₹4,00,000 per month (1–2 months per year)
• International Travel: One round-trip business class airfare annually
• Accommodation Allowance: Up to ₹7,500/day for hotel/guest house
• Contingency Grant: ₹1,00,000 per year for research costs in India
• Domestic Travel Support: Economy-class travel to two Indian institutions yearly

Host Institution Support

• Up to ₹5.00 lakhs annually for:
• Consumables and project-related accessories
• Institutional overhead and contingency expenses

Note: Host institutions must be registered on PFMS and, if private, also on the DARPAN portal of NITI Aayog.

Research Areas Covered under the VAIBHAV Fellowship

Fellowships will be awarded in the following domains:

• Quantum Technologies
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Energy & Environment
• Data & Computational Sciences
• Health & Biomedical Devices
• Advanced Manufacturing
• Aerospace & Photonics
• Social Sciences (aligned with SDGs)
• Agriculture & Food Security
• Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
• Electronics & Semiconductors

VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025, both the applicants and the host institutions must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that the fellowship supports high-impact collaborations with reputed researchers and institutions.

Documents Required for VAIBHAV Fellowship

Applicants must prepare and upload a set of essential documents while applying for the VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025. These documents help assess the applicant’s eligibility, research background, and institutional collaboration plans.

• Bio-data of the applicant
• List of publications (last 3 years)
• Proof of academic qualifications and experience
• Passport, OCI/PIO/Work visa copy
• Consent letters from applicant and host institution
• Plagiarism and originality undertaking
• Bio-data and publication list of host scientist
• Conflict of interest declaration

Evaluation and Selection Process for VAIBHAV Fellowship

All applications will undergo peer review by a DST-appointed Review Committee. Selection will be based on:

• Scientific/technical merit of the proposal
• Applicant’s research contributions and academic track record
• Potential for collaboration with Indian institutions
• Infrastructure of the host institution
• Alignment with national research priorities

Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an online presentation before the final selection by the VAIBHAV Apex Committee.

The VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 is a strategic initiative to promote global research collaborations and enhance India’s innovation ecosystem. With substantial financial assistance and institutional support, this fellowship provides a great opportunity for Indian-origin scientists abroad to contribute to the nation’s scientific development.