The Prime Minister’s Doctoral Research Fellowship (PMDRF) 2025 is one of the most prestigious fellowship programs in India, designed to encourage talented Ph.D. scholars to pursue industry-relevant research in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine. Launched by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, this fellowship is implemented by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).
This scheme bridges the gap between academic research and industrial innovation, ensuring that the research carried out by scholars directly contributes to real-world industrial needs. Each year, 100 fellowships are awarded to eligible candidates, offering not only financial support but also mentorship, exposure to industry practices, and opportunities for international collaboration. Since its inception in 2013, the fellowship has played a crucial role in advancing R&D, generating patents, licenses, and new technologies that benefit both academia and industry.
Key Highlights
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) |
| Total Fellowship Slots | 100 per year |
| Duration | Maximum of 4 years |
| Financial Support | Double the JRF/SRF fellowship (shared equally by Government & Industry) |
| Join WhatsApp | Click Here |
| Join Telegram | Click Here |
| Official Website | www.primeministerfellowshipscheme.in |
Benefits of Prime Minister’s Doctoral Research Fellowship 2025
- Enhanced Scholarship: Selected candidates receive double the JRF/SRF fellowship amount, funded equally by the government and the industry partner.
- Industry-Academia Collaboration: Scholars gain exposure to industrial settings, ensuring their research aligns with practical applications.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Fellows are mentored by academic supervisors and industry experts, ensuring well-rounded guidance.
- Networking & Exposure: Opportunities to attend national and international conferences and workshops.
- Career Advancement: Research projects have potential for patents, licenses, and commercialization, opening career avenues in both academia and industry.
- Annual Review Meetings: Scholars receive performance feedback through structured reviews.
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Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- Must be enrolled as a full-time Ph.D. scholar in a recognized Indian university/research institution.
- Ph.D. registration date must not exceed 14 months from the application date.
- Applicant must have a valid industry partner ready to provide financial and mentorship support.
- Research topic should be innovative, practical, and industry-relevant.
- Candidate must be willing to work with the industry partner during the project.
- Applicants cannot avail any other fellowship simultaneously.
Duration of the Fellowship
The fellowship is provided for a maximum of four years or the duration of the Ph.D. program (whichever is earlier).
Application Process
- Register Online: Visit www.primeministerfellowshipscheme.in or www.serbficci-iirrada.in.
- Prepare Proposal: Download the Call for Proposal & Checklist before filling the application.
- Tie-up with Company: Get necessary undertakings signed by the industry partner and host institute.
- Collect Documents: Prepare digital copies of all required documents.
- Fill Online Form: Submit the form online (no physical copies required).
- Final Submission: Upload all documents and complete the application process.
Documents Required
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
- Ph.D. Enrollment & Registration Certificate
- Academic Certificates (10th, 12th, Graduation, Post-Graduation)
- Other Degree/Diploma Certificates (if applicable)
- Research Synopsis
- Bio-data of Ph.D. Supervisor (max 3 pages)
- Profile of Host Institute
- Profile of Industry Partner with Logo
- Bio-data of Industry Mentor (max 3 pages)
- Undertaking from Supervisor & Industry Partner
- Letter from Industry Partner on company letterhead
- Publications (if any)
FAQs
Q1. Who can apply for the Prime Minister’s Doctoral Research Fellowship 2025?
Ans: Any Indian Ph.D. scholar enrolled within 14 months of admission in a recognized institute, with an industry partner, is eligible.
Q2. How many fellowships are awarded each year?
Ans: The scheme offers 100 fellowships annually, selected based on merit, innovation, and industry relevance of the project.
Q3. What is the financial support provided under this fellowship?
Ans: Fellows receive double the JRF/SRF fellowship amount, shared equally between the Government of India and the industry partner.
Important Links
| Links | Access Here |
|---|---|
| Official Website | https://www.serbficci-iirrada.in/ |
| Application Link | Apply Online |
