Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship in India, Know More About It

Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF)

The Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF) is a prestigious fellowship scheme established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. This initiative aims to foster the development of competent human resources through international exposure, creating a pool of scientist-envoys for future collaborations.

Overview table of Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship

Aspect	Details
Fellowship Name	Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF)
Initiator	Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Objectives	– Human Resource Development in Cutting-edge Technologies – Demonstrating Strength of Indian Agricultural System Abroad – Enhancing Future Cooperation through Scientist-Envoys – Quality Improvement in Higher Agricultural Education – Supporting Priority Areas of Research
Benefits	– To-and-Fro Economy Class Air Tickets – Travel Cost Reimbursement for Overseas Fellows – Monthly Stipend for Indian and Overseas Candidates – Lump-Sum Payments for Contingent and Preparatory Expenses – Release of Fellowship Amount – Funding in Indian Rupees – Other Costs Covered by Fellows – Salary Continuation for In-Service Fellows
Tenure of Fellowship	Three years, non-extendable
Eligibility Criteria	– Educational Qualifications – Age Limit – Qualifying Degree Completion – Priority Areas of Research – Acceptance Letters
Bank Guarantee and Service Bond	– Indian Selected Fellows: US$ 10,000 Bank Guarantee – Foreign National Selected Fellows: ₹ 2,00,000 Recovery – Usage of Recovered Amount – Service Bond for Indian In-Service Candidates – Financial Accountability
Eligibility for Continuance of Fellowship	– Progress Reports – Steadfastness in Research Area – Undertaking and Adherence to Guidelines – Full-time Dedication – Conduct and Performance – Not for Short-term Objectives
Application Process	– Announcements and Notifications – Online Registration – Detailed Information Submission – Acceptance Letters – Final Submission
Mode of Selection	– Evaluation Parameters – Selection Committee – Interview Process – Conduct Certification – Acceptance Letter – Deputation Approval – Registration Deadline
Documents Required	– Photographs – Identity and Residence Proof – Age Verification – Educational Qualifications – Employment Proof – Employer’s Details – Achievements – Experience Certificates – Publications – Details of Ph.D. Program – Self-Declaration – Medical Fitness Certificate – Proficiency in English Certificate – Bank Account Details
Conclusion	The NS-ICAR IF provides a golden opportunity for researchers in agriculture and allied sciences to gain international exposure and contribute globally. Its emphasis on collaboration and knowledge exchange makes it a significant initiative in agricultural research and education.

Objectives

The Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF) is a visionary initiative driven by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) with the primary goal of advancing and sustaining the standards, quality, and relevance of higher agricultural education in India. The fellowship program has been meticulously designed to achieve specific objectives, fostering the development of competent human resources and showcasing the strength of the Indian agricultural system on the global stage. The key objectives are outlined as follows:

1. Human Resource Development in Cutting-edge Technologies:
   • One of the primary objectives of the NS-ICAR IF is to facilitate the human resource development of individuals in the field of cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Through exposure to the best laboratories worldwide, the fellowship aims to equip candidates, particularly from India, with the latest knowledge and skills in agricultural research and development.
2. Demonstrating Strength of Indian Agricultural System Abroad:
   • The NS-ICAR IF seeks to serve as a platform for demonstrating the prowess of the Indian agricultural system on the global front. By sending Indian candidates to renowned overseas universities and hosting international candidates in Indian Agricultural Universities (AUs), the program aims to showcase the excellence, innovation, and research capabilities embedded within the Indian agricultural education system.
3. Enhancing Future Cooperation through Scientist-Envoys:
   • The fellowship program aspires to create a pool of scientist-envoys who can play a pivotal role in fostering enhanced future cooperation in the realm of agriculture. By facilitating interactions and collaborations between scholars from different parts of the world, the NS-ICAR IF contributes to building networks and partnerships that transcend geographical boundaries.
4. Quality Improvement in Higher Agricultural Education:
   • As part of ICAR’s commitment to improving the quality of higher agricultural education in the country, the NS-ICAR IF focuses on elevating the standards and relevance of academic programs. The exposure gained by fellows through international experiences contributes to the infusion of global perspectives and practices into the Indian agricultural education system.
5. Supporting Priority Areas of Research:
   • The fellowship program is strategically aligned with the identification and announcement of priority areas of research by the ICAR. By supporting candidates engaged in doctoral studies in these priority areas, the NS-ICAR IF ensures that research efforts are directed towards addressing critical challenges and opportunities in the agricultural domain.

Benefits of Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship

The Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF) stands as a beacon of opportunity for individuals aspiring to advance their knowledge and contribute significantly to the field of agriculture and allied sciences. This fellowship program, initiated by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), comes with a range of benefits designed to support and empower fellows during their pursuit of a doctoral degree. Below are the detailed benefits provided under the NS-ICAR IF:

1. To-and-Fro Economy Class Air Tickets:

• Both Indian and overseas candidates receive economy-class air tickets for international travel. The route is determined by the shortest distance from the candidate’s residence or workplace to the destination university. The Council covers the cost of these air tickets.

2. Travel Cost Reimbursement for Overseas Fellows:

• Overseas fellows are entitled to reimbursement of economy-class travel costs from the port of arrival in India to the designated university and back. This ensures that the transition to and from India is financially supported for the overseas candidates.

3. Monthly Stipend for Indian and Overseas Candidates:

• The fellowship includes a monthly stipend for both Indian and overseas candidates pursuing a Ph.D. degree. The amount for Indian fellows going abroad is capped at US$ 2,000 per month, while overseas fellows in India receive a stipend not exceeding INR 40,000 per month.

4. Lump-Sum Payments for Contingent and Preparatory Expenses:

• Additional financial support is provided through lump-sum payments for contingent and preparatory expenses. Indian fellows going abroad receive US$ 1,000 per year, while overseas fellows in India receive INR 25,000 per year.

5. Release of Fellowship Amount:

• The fellowship amount is disbursed in installments. The first installment, covering the first six months, is released upon acceptance of the fellowship and receipt of admission letter from the host university. Subsequent installments are released every six months based on the academic progress report certified by the advisor/supervisor.

6. Funding in Indian Rupees:

• The first installment for Indian fellows is paid in Indian Rupees. This ensures that the financial support is aligned with the candidate’s home currency.

7. Other Costs Covered by Fellows:

• While the fellowship covers various expenses, candidates are responsible for additional costs such as medical insurance. Fellows can use the fellowship amount or their own resources to meet these expenditures.

8. Salary Continuation for In-Service Fellows:

• In-service fellows may continue to receive their salary, types of leave, and benefits from their parent organization during the fellowship tenure, following the organization’s rules.

Tenure of Fellowship

The fellowship spans three years and is available for both Indian and overseas candidates. While the tenure is not extendable, the Council supports the fellows in completing their degrees within the stipulated period.

Eligibility

The Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF) stands as a unique opportunity for individuals in the field of agriculture and allied sciences to pursue a doctoral degree while gaining exposure to international research environments. To ensure that the fellowship attracts the most qualified candidates and fulfills its objectives, the eligibility criteria are carefully defined. Below are the detailed eligibility requirements for prospective applicants:

1. Educational Qualifications:
   • Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in agriculture or allied sciences, demonstrating a high level of academic proficiency in their respective disciplines.
   • The Overall Grade Point Average (OGPA) should be at least 6.60 out of 10.0 or an equivalent of 65% marks, showcasing the candidate’s strong academic background.
2. Age Limit:
   • Fresh candidates applying for the NS-ICAR IF should not be more than 35 years old on the last date prescribed for the receipt of applications.
   • In-service candidates, individuals already employed within the ICAR-AU system, have an upper age limit of 40 years on the last date for application submission.
3. Qualifying Degree Completion:
   • Fresh candidates must have completed their qualifying degree not more than two years before the specified date in the year of admission.
   • In-service candidates should already be employed within the ICAR-AU system.
4. Priority Areas of Research:
   • The Council will identify and announce specific priority areas of research one year in advance, along with a list of institutions for admission under the NS-ICAR IF scheme.
   • Candidates must align their research proposals with the identified priority areas, demonstrating their commitment to contributing to the advancement of agriculture and allied sciences.
5. Acceptance Letters:
   • Applicants must obtain, at their own level, an acceptance of their admission in the Ph.D. degree programs from the identified Indian Agricultural Universities in the case of overseas applicants, and vice versa for Indian applicants.
   • Enclosing acceptance letters with the fellowship application is preferred, demonstrating the candidate’s proactive approach to securing admission.

Bank Guarantee and Service Bond

The Bank Guarantee and Service Bond are crucial components of the Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship (NS-ICAR IF) program, ensuring the commitment and financial responsibility of the selected fellows.

1. Indian Selected Fellows:
   • Upon selection, Indian fellows are required to provide an irrevocable Bank Guarantee for an amount of US$ 10,000 (equivalent in rupee currency) in favor of the Secretary, ICAR.
   • This bank guarantee should remain valid for the entire duration of the fellowship, up to the successful completion of the program.
2. Foreign National Selected Fellows:
   • For foreign national fellows, an amount of ₹ 2,00,000 will be recovered from their fellowship grant as an alternative to the Bank guarantee. This recovery will take place in installments of ₹ 1,00,000 each from the first and second installment until the successful completion of their Ph.D. study program.
3. Usage of Recovered Amount:
   • The recovered amount of ₹ 2,00,000 will be paid to the fellow at the time of the final release of the fellowship, providing a financial safety net for the fellow during the course of their studies.
4. Service Bond for Indian In-Service Candidates:
   • In-service candidates selected for the international fellowship must execute a bond with the deputing University/Institute. This bond stipulates that the fellow will undertake to serve the institution for a minimum of three years upon completion of their degree.
5. Financial Accountability:
   • These measures, whether in the form of a Bank Guarantee or Service Bond, ensure financial accountability on the part of the fellows. They not only signify the commitment of the fellows to the program but also serve as a mechanism to safeguard the financial interests of the ICAR.

Eligibility for the Continuance of the Fellowship

Ensuring the continuation of the fellowship is contingent upon adherence to certain guidelines and criteria, reflecting the commitment of the fellows to their research and the objectives of the NS-ICAR IF program.

1. Progress Reports:
   • Fellows are required to submit progress reports to the Council every six months through their respective adviser/supervisor/head of the institution. These reports serve as a comprehensive overview of the fellow’s academic and research advancements.
2. Steadfastness in Research Area:
   • During the tenure of the fellowship, fellows must not change their place of work or deviate from the broad research area for which the fellowship was initially sanctioned. This ensures that the fellows remain focused on their chosen area of study.
3. Undertaking and Adherence to Guidelines:
   • Selected candidates must submit an Undertaking affirming their commitment to the guidelines regulating the fellowship. Adherence to these guidelines is paramount for the continuance of the fellowship.
4. Full-time Dedication:
   • Fellows are expected to dedicate their full time to their chosen area of studies and research work throughout the fellowship period. Satisfactory progress, as reflected in academic reports and certifications from advisers, is essential for the continuance of the fellowship.
5. Conduct and Performance:
   • Unsatisfactory performance in studies or conduct probation can lead to the termination of the fellowship. In such cases, fellows are required to cover the remaining program expenses from their own resources.
6. Not for Short-term Objectives:
   • Importantly, the NS-ICAR IF is not intended for short-term training or conducting research of brief duration. The fellowship is designed to support sustained and substantial contributions to the field of agriculture and allied sciences.

Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship Apply Online

1. Announcements and Notifications:

The process begins with announcements and notifications published annually in Indian national newspapers and on the official ICAR website, “http://www.icar.org.in.” Additionally, Indian diplomatic missions in foreign countries are informed through emails, ensuring widespread dissemination of information.

2. Online Registration:

Prospective candidates are required to submit their applications online through the designated portal. The first step involves filling out the fellowship registration form, accessible at https://education2.icar.gov.in/FellowShip/registration.

3. Detailed Information Submission:

After completing the registration, applicants must log in to https://education2.icar.gov.in/FellowShip/Loginfellowship.aspx to provide detailed information. This includes:

• User Details
• Passport Details
• Academic Qualification
• Fellowships Selection
• Work/Teaching Experience
• Achievements
• Details of Publications
• Details of the Degree Programme
• Referee Details
• Proficiency in Language
• Relatives Details
• Remarks

This step ensures that the Council receives a comprehensive overview of each candidate’s academic and professional background.

4. Acceptance Letters:

Applicants for the ICAR-IF must obtain acceptance letters for their admission to Ph.D. degree programs. For overseas applicants, these should be from the identified Indian Agricultural Universities, and for Indian applicants, from the identified overseas institutions. Enclosing these acceptance letters with the application is recommended.

5. Final Submission:

After thoroughly filling out the application details, candidates must click on the “Final Submit” button to conclude the application process. This ensures that the application is submitted for evaluation.

Mode of Selection

Evaluation Parameters:

• Relevance of the area of study.
• Proposed research plan.
• Academic records.
• Achievements and past work experience.

Selection Committee:

• Constituted by the Council.
• Empowered to judge the suitability of candidates.

Interview Process:

• Conducted based on evaluation scores.
• Subsequent interview by the Selection Committee.
• Telephonic/teleconferencing interviews for overseas candidates.

Conduct Certification:

• Clear record of good conduct certified by the Competent Authority of the last attended University or current employer.

Acceptance Letter:

• Furnish a letter of acceptance for admission to the respective degree program at the University during the interview.

Deputation Approval:

• In-service Indian candidates must provide deputation approval from their respective Director of ICAR Institutes/Vice-Chancellor of Agricultural Universities.

Registration Deadline:

• Candidates must register for the program within one year from the date of the fellowship award. Delay may lead to automatic termination.

Documents Required

Photographs:

• Passport size photos.

Identity and Residence:

• Proof of identity.
• Proof of residence.

Age Verification:

• Proof of age/DOB.

Educational Qualifications:

• Passing Certificate/Mark sheet of the latest educational qualification.

Employment Proof:

• No-Objection Certificate from the employer (for employed applicants).

Employer’s Details:

• Details of employer’s organization (Name, Address, Head of Organization).

Achievements:

• Details of awards/honors/scholarships.

Experience Certificates:

• Experience letters/certificates.

Publications:

Details of publications (Above NAAS rating of 4.0).

1. Details of Ph.D. Program:
   • Discipline/subject.
   • Academic session and year of admission.
   • Proposed area of study.
   • Title of proposed research plan.
   • Host University details.
   • Acceptance letter for admission from the Host University.
2. Self-Declaration:
   • Self-declaration by the candidate.
3. Medical Fitness:
   • Certificate of physical fitness (By an authorized Medical Doctor).
4. Proficiency in English:
   • Certificate of proficiency in English (for overseas applicants).
5. Bank Account Details:
   • Details of the Aadhaar linked bank account.

Conclusion: Netaji Subhas – ICAR International Fellowship

The NS-ICAR IF is a golden opportunity for aspiring researchers in agriculture and allied sciences to gain international exposure and contribute to the global agricultural community. The program’s emphasis on fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange positions it as a significant initiative in the realm of agricultural research and education.

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