‘Research pays better abroad, need 60% hike in fellowship,’ say protesting PhD scholars
PhD scholars from centrally-run institutions in India participated in a nationwide peaceful protest organized by the All India Research Scholars Association (AIRSA) to express their dissatisfaction with the 20% hike in fellowship stipends implemented by the government. The Department of Science and Technology (DST) had announced the increase, which fell short of the researchers’ demand for a 60% hike. The protest aimed to address various issues, including the automatic revision of fellowships, non-NET fellowships, timely disbursement of stipends, and improved research infrastructure.
During the protest, PhD scholars across universities rejected the 20% hike and emphasized their discontent. They argued that a 60% hike was reasonable considering factors such as inflation and the significant efforts they put into their research. Some scholars expressed concerns about the lack of a fixed working schedule and the possibility of brain drain if the situation persisted.
The irregular release of stipends was also a persistent issue, with scholars reporting delays and infrequent disbursements. Dissatisfaction with the non-NET fellowship, which had not been revised since 2006, was also highlighted. Students voiced their concerns on social media platforms and abstained from attending their labs as part of the protest.
Researchers emphasized the need for better infrastructure, including hostels and well-equipped libraries. AIRSA had previously reached out to the DST and the University Grants Commission (UGC) to discuss the scholars’ demands but had not received a response. The protest will continue until their demands are addressed. Some scholars planned to approach their respective Vice-Chancellors and the UGC after the college reopened.
‘Research pays better abroad, need 60% hike in fellowship,’ say protesting PhD scholars
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