Quality correction (verified 21 September 2026): This guide has been updated to the current ANRF National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) terms. The current fellowship is ₹80,000 per month. Applicants who have submitted their PhD/M.D./M.S. thesis but have not yet been awarded the degree may receive ₹50,000 per month until the eligible degree is awarded.
ANRF National Post Doctoral Fellowship: Purpose
The National Post Doctoral Fellowship supports early-career researchers who want to undertake focused postdoctoral research in India under an eligible mentor at a recognised academic institution, national laboratory or other recognised R&D institution.
Current Fellowship Amount
- ₹80,000 per month for eligible fellows after award of the qualifying doctoral degree.
- ₹50,000 per month for applicants who have submitted their PhD/M.D./M.S. thesis and are awaiting formal award of the eligible degree.
- The fellowship is taxable under applicable Indian income-tax rules.
Key Eligibility Points
- Applicants should hold the required doctoral/medical research qualification or have submitted the qualifying thesis as permitted by ANRF.
- The standard upper age limit is 35 years at the time of application.
- ANRF provides specified age relaxation for eligible categories, including SC/ST/OBC, persons with disabilities and women candidates.
- Applicants are permitted to apply only within the prescribed period after the PhD viva-voce.
- The fellowship is tenable only in India.
Host Institution and Mentor
The fellowship must be implemented at a recognised Indian academic institution, national laboratory or recognised R&D institution. The host institution is expected to provide the administrative and research infrastructure needed to carry out the proposed work.
How to Apply
- Check the current N-PDF status on the ANRF portal.
- Confirm age, degree-status and post-PhD timing eligibility.
- Identify an eligible mentor and host institution in India.
- Prepare the research proposal and supporting documents required in the current call.
- Submit only through the official ANRF application system when the submission window is open.
Official Source
ANRF — National Post Doctoral Fellowship
Verification date: 21 September 2026. Always use the live ANRF portal for the current application window, detailed rules and document requirements.
