VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025: Eligibility, Benefits, Application Process & More - Don’t Miss Out

The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has announced the Vaishvik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Fellowship 2025, a forward-looking initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between the global Indian scientific diaspora and India's premier academic and research institutions.

This program seeks to harness the expertise of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) to contribute to India's research and development ecosystem.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Must be a NRI, PIO, or OCI currently residing and working outside India.

• Should possess a Ph.D., M.D., M.S., or M.Tech degree.

• Must have a minimum of five years of relevant research experience in academic or industrial settings, preferably associated with globally recognized universities or research institutions.

Fellowship Duration and Scope

The fellowship allows selected candidates to spend one to two months per year in India over a period of three years. During this tenure, fellows will engage in research collaboration, provide academic mentorship, and participate in institutional development activities within Indian host institutions.

Financial Support and Benefits

Fellows selected under the VAIBHAV program will receive comprehensive financial support, including:

• An emolument of ₹4,00,000 per month (approximately USD 5000) for the duration of their stay.

• Business class airfare from the country of residence to India.

• Accommodation and local travel allowances.

• A contingency grant for research expenses.

• Financial support to host institutions for consumables, contingencies, and overheads.

Research Domains Covered

The fellowship supports a wide range of interdisciplinary research areas, including but not limited to:

• Quantum Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

• Health and Biomedical Sciences

• Environmental and Earth Sciences

• Agricultural Sciences

• Energy and Sustainable Technologies

• Space and Material Sciences

• Communication and Electronic Technologies

Application Process

The application process is entirely online and is hosted on the e-PMS (Electronic Project Management System) Portal of the DST. Important details include:

• Application window: April 15 to May 30, 2025

• The application must be initiated by an Indian host scientist, affiliated with a recognized higher education or research institution in India.

• All supporting documents and forms must be submitted exclusively via the e-PMS portal.

• Applicants will receive auto-generated emails guiding them through the submission process. For more information, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official

• DST website or the e-PMS portal.

The VAIBHAV Fellowship 2025 marks a significant step in India's pursuit of scientific excellence by promoting global collaboration and leveraging the intellectual capital of its diaspora. By facilitating structured engagements between Indian-origin experts abroad and Indian institutions, the program aims to build enduring research partnerships, enrich domestic scientific capabilities, and enhance India's global standing in science and technology.

This fellowship not only supports India's development goals but also offers Indian-origin scientists a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the nation's progress while continuing their professional engagements abroad. As the application period approaches, eligible candidates and Indian institutions are encouraged to explore this prestigious opportunity.