The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment published a case study highlighting the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC) program supporting Shri Ashish Kumar Singh, a 29-year-old PhD student in Political Science from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. Singh has been receiving the NFSC fellowship since April 2024, which provides financial support of Rs. 44,400 per month for 26 months, including house rent allowance and contingency support for research expenses.
Before receiving the fellowship, Singh depended on his family to meet educational and living costs, with limited resources restricting his access to research materials and academic activities. The fellowship has enabled him to purchase books, access online resources, attend seminars and conferences, and meet research-related and day-to-day expenses. Singh reported that the support has reduced his financial stress and allowed him to focus more intently on his doctoral research.
The assistance has also reduced the financial burden on his family and strengthened his independence and confidence. After completing his doctorate, Singh aims to join a government institution as an Assistant Professor and is interested in competitive examinations conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission. The case study demonstrates how the NFSC fellowship supports scholars from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing higher education and working toward their career ambitions.