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Higher education and advanced research open pathways to academic excellence, professional growth and meaningful contributions to society. With the right support and encouragement, scholars from SC, ST, OBC & other such backgrounds become empowered to pursue their research aspirations, strengthen their knowledge and skills, and work towards achieving their academic goals.

Financial assistance plays a vital role in enabling them to focus on their studies, explore their potential and build a strong foundation for future success.

Dr Shrikant Dilip Khandare, a scholar from Solapur, Maharashtra, pursued his doctoral studies with the aim of contributing to sustainable solutions for environmental challenges. After qualifying the CSIR-UGC NET in June 2018, he continued to work towards his academic aspirations. However, financial uncertainty posed challenges to the continuation of his research and created concerns about completing his Ph.D.

Coming from a family whose circumstances were described as unstable, Dr Khandare faced uncertainty about sustaining his doctoral studies. Despite his determination to continue his research, financial constraints threatened his academic progress. He acknowledged that, without financial assistance, he might have had to discontinue his doctoral programme. Nevertheless, he remained committed to pursuing his research and achieving his academic goals.

Financial assistance under the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC) became an important source of support in Dr Khandare’s academic journey. He began receiving assistance in October 2019, including fellowship support and House Rent Allowance (HRA), amounting to a total of ₹9.90 lakh. This assistance helped him continue his doctoral studies and devote greater attention to his academic work without the constant uncertainty of financing his education.

With the support received under the NFSC scheme and his sustained commitment to research, Dr Khandare successfully completed his Ph.D. The fellowship played a significant role in enabling him to continue his doctoral programme and achieve this important academic milestone. His experience highlights how timely financial assistance can help scholars overcome economic barriers and pursue advanced education.

Dr Khandare’s research aspirations are closely connected to addressing environmental challenges, particularly plastic waste and pollution. He aims to contribute to the development of sustainable solutions to tackle these issues. His academic journey reflects the potential of research and higher education to support environmental sustainability and generate knowledge that can contribute to addressing pressing societal concerns.

Dr Shrikant Dilip Khandare’s achievement demonstrates the importance of fellowship assistance in strengthening access to higher education and research. His journey illustrates how targeted financial support, combined with perseverance and academic commitment, can help scholars navigate financial uncertainty, complete doctoral studies and work towards their research ambitions. The NFSC scheme continues to represent an important avenue for supporting eligible Scheduled Caste students in pursuing advanced education and research.

SS-139-TAR/KV/GA/RK

Date: 19.10.26

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