In a major boost to higher education and research, several government-funded, UGC-supported, and private foundation scholarships are currently available for Indian students from Class 10 onwards, including PhD scholars. These schemes aim to promote merit, inclusivity, regional balance (especially North East India), and research excellence.
Below is an updated and comprehensive list, including INSPIRE PhD, Ishan Uday, Azim Premji Foundation scholarships, and many more, along with eligibility criteria and application procedures.
Government & UGC Scholarships
1. INSPIRE Fellowship for PhD (DST)
- First-rank holders at UG/PG level OR INSPIRE Scholar at UG/PG
- Age limit: 27 years (relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/Women)
- Enrollment in a recognized PhD program in basic or applied sciences
Fellowship Amount:
- ₹31,000 per month (first 2 years – JRF)
- ₹35,000 per month (remaining years – SRF)
- Annual contingency grant
Application Procedure:
- Apply online through the DST–INSPIRE portal
- Selection based on academic merit and research proposal
2. Ishan Uday Special Scholarship Scheme for North Eastern Region
- Domicile of North Eastern states
- Passed Class 12 from a recognized board
- Family income below ₹4.5 lakh per annum
- Admission in a recognized UG program
Scholarship Amount: ₹5,400–₹7,800 per month
Application Procedure:
- Online application through National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
- Verification by institution and state authorities
3. Post Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child
- Single girl child in a family
- Admission in first year of PG course
- Age limit: up to 30 years
Scholarship Amount: ₹36,200 per year
Application Procedure:
- Apply online through NSP
- Subject to UGC guidelines
4. National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribe Students
- SC/ST category
- Family income below ₹8 lakh
- Enrollment in full-time MPhil/PhD
Fellowship Amount:
- As per UGC JRF/SRF rates
- Contingency and HRA included
Application Procedure:
- Online application via NSP
- Selection through merit and eligibility verification
Private & Foundation Scholarships
5. Azim Premji Foundation Scholarship
- Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
- Admission in recognized colleges/universities
- Priority to rural and government institution students
Scholarship Benefits:
- Tuition fee and academic support
- Mentorship and academic monitoring
Application Procedure:
- Apply through partner institutions or foundation-linked portals
- Selection based on need and merit
6. Tata Trusts Scholarships
- Indian nationals with strong academic record
- Family income criteria as specified per scheme
Benefits:
- Partial to full financial support
- Special focus on higher education and research
Application Procedure:
- Apply through Tata Trusts official portals or partner institutes
7. Reliance Foundation Scholarships
- High academic achievers
- Family income below prescribed limit
Benefits:
- Tuition support
- Leadership development programs
Application Procedure:
- Online application through Reliance Foundation portal
School-Level & Early Stage Scholarships
8. National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS)
- Passed Class 8
- Family income below ₹3.5 lakh
- Minimum qualifying marks as per norms
Amount: ₹12,000 per year
Application Procedure:
- State-level examination
- Application through State Education Department
9. Pre-Matric & Post-Matric Scholarships
- SC/ST/OBC/Minority students
- Income limits vary by category
Benefits:
- Maintenance allowance
- Fee reimbursement
Application Procedure:
- Apply through NSP
- Annual renewal required
Documents Commonly Required
- Academic mark sheets
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Aadhaar card
- Bank account details
- Admission proof / Bonafide certificate
Conclusion
With opportunities ranging from school education to doctoral research, these scholarships ensure that financial hardship does not hinder academic excellence. Special schemes like INSPIRE PhD encourage scientific research, while Ishan Uday supports students from the North East, and foundations like the Azim Premji Foundation strengthen access to higher education for the underprivileged.
Students and parents are advised to regularly check official portals, adhere to deadlines, and apply carefully to maximize their chances of success.

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