The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), one of India’s premier agricultural research institutions, offers a variety of scholarships for its M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs. The scholarships are aimed at helping students from across the country pursue advanced education in agricultural sciences and related fields. These scholarships are offered to meritorious candidates who meet the eligibility requirements and are selected for the programs based on their academic performance.
In this article, we will delve into the details of the IARI scholarships, including the benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and documents required for successful application.
Benefits of the IARI Scholarship
The IARI Scholarship provides financial support to students pursuing advanced degrees in agriculture, particularly in M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs. The scholarship offers both monthly stipends and contingency grants for research-related expenses. Here are the key benefits:
- Monthly Stipend
- M.Sc. Scholarship: ₹7,560/- per month
- Ph.D. Scholarship: ₹10,500/- per month
These stipends are provided for the duration of the scholarship period, including any extension granted.
- Contingency Grant
- M.Sc. Students: ₹6,000/- per academic year
- Ph.D. Students: ₹10,000/- per academic year
The contingency grant is intended to cover the costs of experimental materials, books, thesis preparation, and study tours required for research.
- In-Service Candidates/Departmental Students
In-service candidates (who are already employed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research or other institutions) are eligible for a scholarship of ₹3,000/- per month, in addition to their full leave salary. This benefit is designed to support their studies without causing a financial burden.
Duration of the Scholarship
The IARI scholarship is awarded for a specific duration based on the type of course:
- M.Sc. Courses (Junior Scholarship)
The scholarship is awarded for a period of two years. However, in exceptional cases, the duration may be extended for up to three months, based on the student’s progress and the recommendation of the chairperson or professor. - Ph.D. Courses (Senior Scholarship)
The scholarship for Ph.D. students is typically awarded for three years. Similar to M.Sc. students, the scholarship period can be extended by up to six months, based on the student’s academic performance and justification for the extension. - Extension for SC/ST/PC Students
Students belonging to SC/ST/PC categories are eligible for an extended scholarship period. The extension can be up to six months for M.Sc. students and up to one year for Ph.D. students. - Additional Scholarship for Introductory Courses
Students who undergo introductory courses in agriculture during their first year of study will receive an additional one-year scholarship, on top of the regular scholarship duration. - Maintaining Academic Performance
To continue receiving the scholarship, students must maintain a minimum Overall Grade Point Average (OGPA) of 6.00 out of 10.00 at the end of their third trimester. Those who maintain an OGPA of 6.50 or higher will continue to receive the fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria for the IARI Scholarship
The IARI scholarship is available to students pursuing both M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs. To be eligible for these scholarships, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. For M.Sc. and M.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering) Courses:
- Candidates must have completed their Bachelor’s Degree under the 10+2+4, 10+2+3, or 10+1+4 systems (or a B.Sc. under the 10+2+2 system prior to 1985).
- The candidate must meet the specific qualification requirements set out in the Information Bulletin.
2. For Ph.D. Courses:
- Candidates must have obtained at least 60% marks or an OGPA of 7.50 out of 10.00 (or equivalent) in their M.Sc. / M.Tech. degree.
- For SC/ST/PC candidates, the eligibility criteria are 55% marks or an OGPA of 7.00 out of 10.00.
3. Nationality and Age Limit:
- The scholarship is open to Indian nationals only.
- The minimum age for admission to the Ph.D. program is 21 years, as of 31st July of the year of admission.
Application Process
The application process for the IARI scholarship is as follows:
Online Application
- Candidates can download the application form and Information Bulletin from the official IARI website at http://www.iari.res.in.
- Application Fee: Candidates must submit a Demand Draft for ₹500/- (₹250/- for SC/ST/PC candidates) along with the application.
- The application can also be obtained by sending a crossed Demand Draft for ₹575/- drawn in favor of the Registrar, Post Graduate School, IARI, along with a written request indicating the applicant’s address.
Offline Application
- In-person applications can be made at Syndicate Bank, Pusa Campus, by making a payment of ₹500/- (₹250/- for SC/ST/PC candidates) to purchase the application form and the Information Bulletin.
Submission of Application
- All applications, along with the required documents, should be addressed to:
- The Registrar, Post Graduate School, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi – 110 012.
Note: If the applicant is employed, the application must be submitted through the employer.
Documents Required
When applying for the IARI scholarship, candidates must submit the following documents:
- Proof of Date of Birth
- Matriculation Certificate (10th) or equivalent
- Higher Secondary (12th) Certificate and mark sheet (if applicable)
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate and mark sheet
- Master’s Degree Certificate and mark sheet (for Ph.D. applicants)
- Course Completion Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Two Passport-size Photographs
Conclusion
The IARI Scholarship provides a fantastic opportunity for students pursuing higher education in agricultural sciences. By offering generous stipends, contingency grants, and a flexible duration, the scholarship helps ease the financial burden on deserving students. The application process is straightforward, and candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply.
With its emphasis on merit and academic excellence, the IARI scholarship plays a significant role in nurturing the next generation of agricultural researchers and professionals in India.