India has been witnessing rapid growth in science, research, and innovation. With an intent to bridge the gap between Indian-origin scientists living abroad and the Indian research ecosystem, the Government of India introduced a strategic initiative—the Vaishvik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship. The fellowship acts as a channel to bring world-class talent and Indian-origin researchers back to Indian soil, at least periodically, to engage in meaningful academic and research collaborations.
In this article, we will explore the VAIBHAV Fellowship in detail, covering its objective, benefits, eligibility criteria, research domains, application process, and why it is considered a milestone step in India’s science diplomacy.
🧭 What is the VAIBHAV Fellowship?
The VAIBHAV Fellowship is an initiative launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. It aims to facilitate collaboration between the Indian scientific diaspora and Indian academic/research institutions. This program is a continuation of the spirit of the VAIBHAV Summit 2020, which encouraged Indian scientists residing abroad to contribute to India’s growth story.
This prestigious fellowship offers Indian-origin scientists—Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)—a platform to undertake high-quality research in collaboration with Indian institutions for up to two months per year, over a period of three years.
🎯 Objectives of the VAIBHAV Fellowship
The primary goals of the VAIBHAV Fellowship are:
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To enhance the quality of research and innovation in India by tapping into the global knowledge pool of Indian-origin experts.
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To build long-term collaboration between the Indian scientific diaspora and Indian academic/research institutions.
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To promote the transfer of cutting-edge technologies and best research practices from globally leading labs and universities to Indian setups.
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To strengthen India’s global research networks and help improve international rankings of Indian institutions.
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To support India’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy.
🌐 Strategic Importance
India has one of the largest scientific diasporas in the world. A vast number of Indian-origin scientists and researchers are working in top universities, industries, and research organizations across the globe.
The Vaibhav Fellowship program ensures:
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India benefits from their expertise, even if they choose to remain abroad.
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The brain-drain issue is counterbalanced by meaningful engagement.
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Long-term partnerships can lead to joint publications, patents, and technology commercialization.
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Students and early-career researchers in India gain exposure to global scientific standards.
🧪 Eligible Research Areas
The fellowship spans across diverse and critical research domains aligned with India’s national priorities. Some of the key disciplines include:
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Quantum Technologies
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Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
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Data Science and Big Data Analytics
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Health, Medical Devices & Pharmaceuticals
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Energy and Environment
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Semiconductors and Photonics
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Aerospace & Communication Technologies
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Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
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Earth and Environmental Sciences
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Computational Sciences
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Materials and Nano-Technology
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Biotechnology and Agricultural Science
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Social Sciences for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This broad spectrum ensures that the fellowship caters to both hard sciences and socially impactful research.
👨🔬 Eligibility Criteria
For Applicants (Fellows):
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Must be an NRI, OCI, or PIO residing and working abroad.
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Should have a Ph.D., M.D., M.S., or M.Tech from a recognized university.
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Must be actively engaged in research.
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Must be holding a regular academic/research position at a top 200 QS-ranked global institution (subject-wise) or a reputed research/industrial lab.
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Should have at least 5 years of professional experience in the field.
For Indian Host Institutions:
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Indian higher educational institutions/universities ranked among the top 200 in NIRF rankings or having a NAAC ‘A+’ grade or above.
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Public-funded research institutions and national laboratories recognized by the Government of India.
💰 Fellowship Benefits
The VAIBHAV Fellowship offers attractive financial and logistical support to ensure a smooth research experience in India.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Fellowship Amount | ₹4,00,000 for up to 2 months/year |
| International Travel Support | Round-trip Business Class airfare (once a year) |
| Accommodation | Hotel or guest house with allowance up to ₹7,500/day |
| Research Contingency | ₹1,00,000 per year |
| Domestic Travel | Economy class fare for academic visits within India |
| Institutional Support | ₹5,00,000/year for 3 years to host institute |
These incentives not only make the fellowship financially lucrative but also encourage a consistent and sustainable collaboration model.
📅 Application Process
🔑 Key Dates for VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025:
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Application Start Date: April 15, 2025
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Last Date to Apply: May 30, 2025
🖥️ How to Apply:
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Visit the DST e-PMS Portal: https://onlinedst.gov.in
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Register and log in as an applicant.
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Complete the application form with personal, professional, and research details.
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Upload necessary documents:
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CV
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Proof of Indian origin (PIO/OCI/NRI)
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Proof of academic position
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Endorsement from the Indian host institution
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Proposed research plan
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Submit before the deadline.
Applications are evaluated by expert panels based on scientific merit, potential for collaboration, and national relevance.
📌 Role of Host Institutions
Indian institutions play a crucial role in the success of the VAIBHAV Fellowship. Their responsibilities include:
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Providing access to research infrastructure and labs.
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Facilitating collaborations with local researchers and students.
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Assisting in travel and accommodation arrangements.
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Submitting annual progress reports and utilization certificates.
Such partnerships enrich the institutional ecosystem and help build global networks for Indian researchers.
📈 Long-Term Impact of the Fellowship
The VAIBHAV Fellowship is more than just an academic opportunity. Its real significance lies in long-term strategic benefits for India:
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Reverse Brain-Drain: Creates avenues for Indian-origin experts to return and contribute without permanently relocating.
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Capacity Building: Empowers Indian students and junior researchers by exposing them to global research practices.
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Boosts Innovation Ecosystem: Drives innovation through joint patents, start-ups, and technology transfers.
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Global Recognition: Enhances India’s visibility and credibility in the international research landscape.
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Policy Influence: Helps bring in new policy ideas aligned with international standards.
👥 Success Stories and Testimonials
Though relatively new, the VAIBHAV Fellowship has already seen strong interest from the Indian diaspora. Several previous awardees have reported impactful outcomes such as:
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Co-authoring international papers with Indian researchers.
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Starting Indo-global research projects and seed funding programs.
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Offering mentorship to Ph.D. and postdoctoral students in India.
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Conducting international workshops and seminars.
📞 Contact Information
For more details, queries, and support, the following officials can be contacted:
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Dr. Charu Agarwal
Email: vaibhav-india[at]gov[dot]in -
Mr. Vijender Singh
Email: vijender.67[at]gov[dot]in
More details: DST Website – Vaibhav Fellowship
🧭 Final Thoughts
The VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 is a game-changing initiative that exemplifies India’s dedication to building a knowledge-powered future. By inviting the Indian scientific diaspora to co-create and co-innovate, India is building bridges that will define its academic and scientific landscape for generations to come.
Whether you are an Indian-origin researcher looking to give back to your roots or an Indian institution aiming to boost your research ecosystem—VAIBHAV is your platform.
Apply today, and be a part of India’s scientific renaissance!
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