New Delhi: For Priyanga G, a 27-year-old Ph.D. scholar from Puducherry, financial constraints and family pressure once posed challenges to her pursuit of higher education. Support through the National Fellowship for Scheduled Castes (NFSC) Scheme, however, helped her continue her research and gain exposure at international academic forums.
Her fellowship assistance began in November 2022, providing financial support during her Ph.D. journey and helping her meet expenses associated with research.
Fellowship Helped Ease Research Expenses
The financial assistance enabled Priyanga to purchase expensive research material without having to hesitate over the cost.
According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the research materials she needed were priced between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000.
The fellowship helped her manage such expenses while remaining focused on her doctoral research.
From Financial Constraints to International Conferences
The NFSC support also expanded Priyanga’s academic exposure beyond India.
With the assistance, she was able to:
- Attend two international conferences abroad
- Gain exposure to international academic and research communities
- Present her research at more than 10 international conferences in India
- Continue her Ph.D. without the same level of financial pressure
She was also able to take her parents along on her international conference trips, an experience she said would not have been possible without the fellowship support.
Fellowship Supports Career Aspirations
Beyond meeting immediate research expenses, Priyanga said the fellowship strengthened her confidence and helped her focus on long-term academic and career growth.
She described the NFSC fellowship as a turning point in her journey, saying it supported her research while giving her the opportunity to learn, grow and make her family proud.
A Case for Wider Access to Higher Education
Priyanga’s journey highlights the role that targeted fellowship support can play in helping students from financially constrained backgrounds pursue advanced research.
From struggling with financial pressures during her higher education journey to participating in international conferences, her experience demonstrates how financial assistance can create opportunities for academic exposure, research development and professional growth.
About the NFSC Scheme
The National Fellowship for Scheduled Castes (NFSC) is a Government of India fellowship scheme that supports eligible Scheduled Caste students pursuing higher studies and research, including M.Phil. and Ph.D. programmes. The scheme aims to improve access to advanced education by providing financial assistance to scholars and helping reduce economic barriers to research.
