Pune University Opens Applications for Bharat Ratna J.R.D. Tata Financial Assistance Scheme for Ph.D. Students
Pune, 31st March 2025: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has opened applications for the Bharat Ratna J.R.D. Tata Financial Assistance Scheme, which provides financial aid to Ph.D. students. Those who registered for their Ph.D. between 31 August 2021 and 21 April 2025 are eligible to apply until April 21. The university has issued a circular outlining the scheme’s details.
Originally launched in 2018 as the Bharat Ratna J.R.D. Tata Meritorious Research Fellowship Scheme, the initiative aimed to support research students by covering academic expenses. From the academic year 2024-25, it has been renamed the Bharat Ratna J.R.D. Tata Financial Assistance Scheme.
Under this scheme, up to 100 Ph.D. students from university departments and a maximum of two students from each affiliated research center will receive full reimbursement of their academic fees for three years. Selection will be based on academic merit, with applicants required to meet specific eligibility criteria.
To qualify, students must submit a declaration confirming they are not employed, along with Form 16 or proof of income tax filing. Additionally, a Tehsildar certificate is required to verify that the applicant’s family income does not exceed ₹2.5 lakh annually. If a student discontinues their Ph.D. program or takes up employment, they must refund the financial aid received. Recipients are also prohibited from availing of other scholarships or enrolling in any additional
academic programs.
The circular further states that students must maintain a minimum of 75% attendance, which will be verified through biometric records. They must also obtain an attendance certification from their research guide, department head, and principal, along with submitting a progress report every six months.
