PhD Scholars Advocate for Higher Stipends amidst Hike in India

India’s Ministry of Education has recently announced a revision in stipends for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Senior Research Fellowship (SRF), and Research Associates (RAs) with the aim of fortifying the nation’s research ecosystem. These increments, effective from January 1, 2023, are set to elevate JRF stipends from Rs 31,000 to Rs 37,000, and SRF stipends will witness an increase from Rs 35,000 to Rs 42,000. Despite these adjustments, a group of PhD students remains dissatisfied, advocating for more substantial stipend hikes and a streamlined disbursement process.

The essence of their argument centers on the belief that research scholars merit more competitive stipends that align with the ever-increasing cost of living, especially in urban areas where many research institutions are situated. The current stipends are often seen as inadequate for covering basic living expenses, housing, and research-related costs. This, they argue, can hinder the quality and pace of research, impacting both individual scholars and the overall research ecosystem.

In addition to stipend levels, the timeliness of disbursement has also been a point of contention. Delayed payments can place considerable financial stress on scholars, potentially affecting their research focus and productivity. Advocates for change emphasize the need for efficient disbursement systems that ensure stipend reach scholars on time, allowing them to concentrate on their research without financial worries.

Moreover, while the recent stipend adjustments are a step in the right direction, some scholars stress the importance of addressing the broader issue of research funding in India. Currently, the nation allocates a mere 0.6% of its GDP to research, which many argue is insufficient to foster a robust research ecosystem. They call for increased public and private sector engagement in research and development to provide scholars with better financial support and resources.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The TOI