Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child
Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child (SJSGC) is a government initiative under the University Grants Commission (UGC), designed to support higher education for single girl children pursuing a Ph.D. degree. It aims to encourage and promote the importance of education for women, while also adhering to the small family norm.
This fellowship targets single girl children in India who wish to pursue doctoral research in any discipline. By offering financial support, this scheme provides the necessary assistance for higher education and also fosters gender equality in academic spaces.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The key goals of the Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child include:
- Supporting and encouraging single girl children in their pursuit of higher education.
- Emphasizing the importance of education for women and promoting gender equality.
- Providing financial assistance to reduce economic barriers to advanced education.
- Spreading awareness about the concept of small family norms by recognizing single girl children.
Eligibility Criteria for Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child
To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- The applicant must be a single girl child of her parents and should be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at a recognized university or college.
- The fellowship is available for full-time Ph.D. candidates only; part-time or distance education programs are not eligible.
- The upper age limit is 40 years for general category students, and 45 years for SC, ST, OBC, and PWD students.
Exclusions
- Families with more than one son or more than one daughter are not eligible.
- Candidates enrolled in part-time or open education Ph.D. programs are not eligible for this fellowship.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The fellowship provides various forms of financial assistance, divided into two phases:
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): ₹31,000 per month for the first two years of the Ph.D. program.
- Senior Research Fellowship (SRF): ₹35,000 per month after the initial two years, for the remaining tenure.
- Contingency Grant: ₹10,000 per year for the first two years, and ₹20,500 for subsequent years.
- Additional Allowances: An escort reader assistance of ₹3,000 per month for differently-abled scholars.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Available as per university rules, depending on the scholar’s accommodation situation.
- Leave Provisions: Fellowship holders can avail earned leave of 30 days annually and maternity/paternity leave as per government rules.
Application Process for Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child
The application process for the fellowship is done online and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Candidates must register online via the UGC website, where they need to provide their basic information and upload required documents.
- Document Submission: Along with the application form, candidates need to submit an affidavit stating they are the only girl child of their parents, as well as their research proposal.
- Final Submission: After completing the registration and uploading the required documents, candidates can submit the application online. No physical copies are accepted.
Documents Required for Application
Candidates need to provide the following documents:
- A scanned copy of their passport-size photograph and signature.
- An affidavit on ₹100 stamp paper attested by a magistrate or first-class officer, proving single girl child status.
- Research proposal and abstract from the Ph.D. program.
- A signed application form approved by the Head of Department or Registrar.
Selection Process
The selection of candidates is based on their eligibility and compliance with the fellowship guidelines. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection, and candidates are chosen based on merit.
FAQ Section
- What is the age limit for applying?
The age limit is 40 years for general category candidates and 45 years for SC/ST/OBC/PWD candidates. - What happens if I take academic leave?
Academic leave is available without a fellowship for up to one year, but the leave must be sanctioned by the university. - Can I apply if I am pursuing a Ph.D. part-time?
No, the fellowship is only available to full-time Ph.D. candidates enrolled in regular programs. - How long is the fellowship tenure?
The fellowship is provided for a maximum of five years, including both the JRF and SRF phases. - Is maternity leave available?
Yes, maternity leave is granted as per government norms, and it does not affect the fellowship.
Conclusion
The Savitribai Jyotirao Phule Fellowship for Single Girl Child is a vital initiative that promotes higher education among single girl children in India. By providing financial support and recognizing the importance of women’s education, the fellowship empowers women to excel in academia and contribute to the country’s development. It also advocates for gender equality and the small family norm, making it a comprehensive program for single girl children aspiring for higher education.
