The Jawaharlal Nehru Fellowship offers financial support to individuals pursuing independent research, creative projects and intellectual inquiry across a range of disciplines. Administered by the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF), the programme provides a monthly stipend of ₹1 lakh for two years.
Established in 1968 to commemorate former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the fellowship aims to encourage higher learning, original thinking and creative work. It is open to Indian citizens working in fields spanning the sciences and humanities.
Eligible applicants may include researchers, writers, journalists, artists and civil servants, including professionals whose work may not fit conventional research fellowship schemes.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong record of work and a genuine commitment to completing a creative or research project. The programme supports specialised technical research as well as in-depth studies of contemporary issues relevant to India.
Selected fellows can pursue their projects at a location of their choice within the country.
Fellowship Stipend and Additional Benefits
The fellowship carries a monthly stipend of ₹1,00,000 for a period of two years. According to the fund’s official website, the stipend is exempt from income tax under Section 10(17A) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
In addition to the stipend, the fund covers actual expenses related to secretarial assistance, travel and other contingencies, subject to a ceiling of ₹75,000 per year.
This financial support is intended to give fellows the time and flexibility to focus on their proposed work.
How Are Jawaharlal Nehru Fellows Selected?
A committee comprising distinguished individuals from different fields selects the fellows. The process aims to recognise excellence across a broad range of disciplines and creative pursuits.
According to the JNMF website, the fund awards one Jawaharlal Nehru Fellowship each year.
Interested candidates can review the programme details and available information on eligibility and applications through the official Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund website. Applicants should consult the official source for the latest application procedure and deadlines.
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