Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj National Research Fellowship (CSMNRF)
Monthly fellowship with HRA and contingency support by SARTHI, Maharashtra for full-time PhD scholars from eligible communities pursuing research in.
About this scheme
The Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj National Research Fellowship (CSMNRF) is implemented by SARTHI (Social Justice and Special Assistance Research and Training Institute), Government of Maharashtra, to provide financial support to full-time PhD scholars from OBC, VJNT (Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes), SBC (Special Backward Category), and other SARTHI-eligible communities. The fellowship amount is at par with the UGC NET-JRF/SRF fellowship rates prescribed by the University Grants Commission — ₹37,000/month for the initial two years (JRF period) and ₹42,000/month thereafter (SRF period) — along with House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per government norms and an annual contingency grant for research expenses. Fellows must be registered at a recognized university or institution in Maharashtra and must be pursuing research through regular (not distance) mode. Applications are invited annually through the SARTHI portal. Selection is based on academic merit, research proposal, and verification of eligibility criteria including domicile, community, and income.
Eligibility
- Residence: Must be a resident of Maharashtra
- Category: Must belong to eligible SARTHI target groups (OBC and other eligible communities)
- Enrollment: Must be registered for a full-time PhD programme at a recognized university or institution
- Qualification: Must possess a postgraduate degree from a recognized institution
- Income criteria: Must satisfy the fellowship guidelines and income criteria prescribed by SARTHI
- Age limit: Must not be above 45 years of age as of 1st January of the respective year
- Mode of study: PhD pursued through distance education shall not be considered for the fellowship
Benefits
- Monthly fellowship at par with UGC NET-JRF rates: ₹37,000/month for the first 2 years (JRF), ₹42,000/month thereafter (SRF)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) as per applicable government norms
- Annual contingency grant for research-related expenses
Required documents
- Aadhaar Card
- Domicile Certificate
- PG Mark Sheets
- PhD Registration Certificate
- Research Proposal
- Income Certificate
- Bank Account Details
- Passport-size Photograph
- Caste Certificate
- 10th & 12th / Graduation Certificates
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