New Delhi, September 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Financial hardship did not stop 29-year-old Shewani Kumari, a scholar from the Scheduled Caste community, from pursuing her academic ambitions. With support from a Central government fellowship, she completed her PhD in Sociology and has since begun teaching as a lecturer, moving closer to her goal of becoming an assistant professor.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment said Shewani’s journey highlights how fellowship support can expand access to higher education, research and professional opportunities for students from disadvantaged communities.
“The fellowship gave me the financial support and confidence to continue my research and complete my PhD. Today, as a lecturer, I am closer to fulfilling my dream of becoming an Assistant Professor and creating a better future through education,” Shewani said.
Coming from a low-income family, Shewani faced significant challenges in meeting the expenses associated with higher education and research. Tuition fees, books, research materials, travel and other academic requirements placed a considerable financial burden on her family and raised uncertainty over the continuation of her studies.
She also faced limited access to academic resources, professional guidance and quality educational opportunities. Social and geographical constraints further restricted her exposure to advanced academic and career prospects.
Despite these challenges, Shewani remained committed to her education, viewing academic success as a pathway to improving her family’s socio-economic condition and building a better future.
Financial assistance under the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) Fellowship for Higher Education and Research became a crucial source of support during her academic journey.
Under the fellowship, she received Rs 31,000 per month as a Junior Research Fellow and Rs 35,000 per month as a Senior Research Fellow.
The financial support helped her meet essential educational and research expenses while allowing her to continue her academic work with greater stability. It also strengthened her confidence and encouraged her to pursue her long-term professional goals.
With sustained determination and fellowship assistance, Shewani completed her PhD in Sociology and gained teaching experience. She is currently working as a lecturer and working towards her aspiration of becoming an assistant professor.
Her journey demonstrates how timely financial assistance and institutional support can help scholars from disadvantaged communities overcome structural barriers and pursue advanced education and professional careers.
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