Nationwide Protest Against Research Fellowship Hike 2023 – Demand For 60% Raise

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has announced an increase in stipends for both Junior and Senior Research Fellowships. However, despite the hikes of 19% for Junior Research Fellows (JRF) and 20% for Senior Research Fellows (SRF), the research community continues to demand a more substantial increase.

Ongoing Protests

Ph.D. students have been voicing their dissatisfaction, demanding at least a 60% increase for the JRF and SRF, as well as for all three tiers of Research Associates. Notably, these calls for a stipend boost have been ongoing for about a year.

The All India Research Association has called for a nationwide peaceful protest against the insufficient fellowship hikes on 30th June 2023, terming it a Black Day for research scholars. 

Through this nationwide protest, participants hope to engage policymakers and relevant authorities in a constructive dialogue to effect positive change. The ultimate goal is to foster an environment where researchers can thrive, fueling scientific breakthroughs and societal development.

An Overview of Stipend Revisions

The stipends were last revised in 2019 for researchers involved in the R&D programs of central government departments and organizations. Compared to 2019, the stipends for RA-1, RA-2, and RA-3 have seen hikes of 23%, 24%, and 16%, respectively.

A Glimpse at the New Stipend Chart

With the recent amendments, the JRF stipend has gone up from Rs 31,000 to Rs 37,000. In a similar vein, the SRF stipend has risen by 20%, equating to Rs 42,000. As for Research Associates, the first, second, and third levels will receive Rs 58,000, Rs 61,000, and Rs 63,000, respectively. The DST announced these changes via Twitter, effective January 1, 2023.

Mixed Reactions from the Research Community

While some scholars have received the increase positively, others have expressed disappointment, arguing that the hike is insufficient to cover inflation. Frustrated candidates have used social media platforms like Twitter to voice their concerns.

The All-India Research Scholars Association, after expressing dissatisfaction with the 19% hike, issued a public call to DST Secretary Ajay Sood and Dr. Jitendra Singh. They urged the authorities to reconsider a 60% fellowship hike, warning that researchers may be compelled to protest publicly if their pleas continue to go unanswered.

All India Research Scholars Association’s Plea

#NonNetFellowshipHike @ugc_india Indian research scholars face neglect from higher authorities despite multiple requests. @mamidala90 and @IndiaDST, we urge you to reconsider the revised research scholars fellowship due to the distress caused by the current #Unacceptablehike20… pic.twitter.com/5mfPcjeVdJ

— All India Research Scholars Association (@AIRSAIndia) June 26, 2023

The All India Research Scholars Association (@AIRSAIndia) took to Twitter to voice their concerns about the perceived neglect of Indian research scholars. They called on the relevant authorities, including DST and @ugc_india, to reassess the newly revised fellowship for research scholars, pointing out the distress caused by the currently unacceptable hike. The association emphasized the need for an urgent meeting to discuss the situation, expressing disappointment on behalf of the scientific community if their concerns are not addressed promptly.

Struggling for Fair Compensation in Science

In conclusion, while the Department of Science and Technology’s recent decision to raise stipends is a step in the right direction, it is clear that a significant portion of the research community feels these increases are not sufficient. The ongoing protests and social media outcry highlight the need for more comprehensive changes to ensure that researchers are adequately compensated for their valuable contributions to India’s scientific and technological development. The calls for dialogue by the All India Research Scholars Association underscore the urgency of this issue. As the nation continues to make strides in science and technology, it is crucial that the concerns of the research community are addressed promptly to maintain momentum and ensure the well-being of these key contributors to the country’s progress.