Dr. Monia from Haryana overcomes financial hurdles to achieve doctorate degree

Dr. Monia, a 29-year-old researcher from Kurukshetra, Haryana, has achieved a significant milestone by completing her Ph.D. The National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC), managed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, played a crucial role in her academic journey. Without this financial assistance, managing the costs of her higher education would have been extremely difficult for her family.

Her ambition is to become a scientist and conduct innovative research in the field of nano-biotechnology. However, her family lacked the financial resources to cover the expenses of her doctoral studies. Costs related to laboratory equipment repairs, sample testing, and attending conferences placed a heavy financial burden on her and caused concern within her family.

She reported facing several challenges during her research, including limited support from her supervisor and experiences of caste-based discrimination. These hurdles caused delays in her work, making an already difficult period even more challenging. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to pursue her goal of becoming a scientist.

Financial support under the NFSC began in March 2022. Dr. Monia received over 10 lakh rupees through fellowship payments, house rent allowance, and contingency grants. This funding enabled her to cover expenses for chemicals, equipment, sample testing, conference fees, and the printing of her thesis, effectively removing the financial barriers that were hindering her doctoral work.

With this support, Dr. Monia became the first person in her family to earn a doctorate. She described this achievement as a significant personal milestone for herself and her family. Expressing gratitude to the ministry, she stated that the NFSC support helped her complete her Ph.D. and paved the way for her future academic and professional aspirations.

Currently, Dr. Monia is preparing for UPSC examinations, scientific recruitment tests, and assistant professor positions. Alongside her interest in scientific research, she also aspires to build a career in administration. Her journey illustrates how fellowship support can help meritorious students overcome financial obstacles in doctoral education and build a foundation for their future.