The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has highlighted the case of Dr. Moniya, a 29-year-old researcher from Haryana, whose doctoral studies were supported by the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC). Her experience demonstrates how the scheme helps students from economically weaker backgrounds complete advanced research degrees despite significant financial hardship.
The Fellowship and the Support Provided
Dr. Moniya began receiving assistance under the NFSC Scheme in March 2022. Over the course of her doctoral studies, she received more than Rs. 10 lakh through a combination of fellowship payments, House Rent Allowance, and contingency assistance. These funds helped her cover the actual expenses that research demands: chemicals and laboratory equipment, sample testing fees, printing her thesis, repairing instruments, and paying to attend academic conferences.
During her studies at Kurukshetra in Haryana, Dr. Moniya faced multiple obstacles beyond finances. Her supervisor provided limited guidance, and she encountered caste discrimination. These challenges compounded the pressure of managing research costs that her family could not afford.
What This Means for You
If you belong to a Scheduled Caste community and are pursuing a doctoral degree, the NFSC can provide financial support to cover research-related expenses that would otherwise force you to abandon your studies. Dr. Moniya’s case shows that the scheme covers not just fees but also the hidden costs of research—equipment, chemicals, conference participation, and thesis production. Her achievement of becoming her family’s first doctorate holder, despite financial constraints and discrimination, demonstrates that fellowship support can be the difference between completing a Ph.D. and dropping out. If you are considering doctoral studies or are currently enrolled, you may be eligible for this assistance.