Those who are passionate about the discipline of history are not merely students. They are the explorers of bygone eras, seekers of narratives, and keepers of the past. Their passion drives them to delve deeper into the annals of time with a thirst for knowledge that knows no bounds. Enthusiasts of history as a subject love to unravel the mysteries of the past. There are remarkable fellowship and scholarship opportunities available and they are mainly dedicated to students pursuing their studies in history as a discipline. In this article, we will explore some prestigious programs designed to support and empower students of history discipline in their quest for knowledge and discovery.
From the INTACH Research Scholarship, which delves into the rich heritage of India, to the Ashoka Fellowships in Ancient and Medieval Indian History/Archaeology which encourage interdisciplinary research, and the Indian Council of Historical Research Junior Research Fellowship, offering valuable financial support for candidates pursuing their doctoral studies, this article introduces students to a world of opportunities for history enthusiasts.
Discover how these programs can provide students with the resources and support they need to embark on a fulfilling journey of exploration and scholarly achievement in the realm of history.
Proposed Themes for INTACH Research Programme
Research may be undertaken in the following areas. Proposed themes for INTACH Research Programme are as follows:
- Nature-culture linkages
- Built heritage typologies
- Conserving, safeguarding and sustaining heritage
- Traditional materials and techniques
- Traditional or indigenous knowledge
- Influences across boundaries
- Heritage tourism
- Heritage education
- Heritage interpretation and presentation
This scholarship aims to provide assistance to research initiatives that challenge the current boundaries of understanding Indian heritage while also exploring fresh viewpoints and research methods. The duration of the scholarship programme spans one year.
Application Process
Applicants must download the Application Form, available as Annexure 1. They duly need to follow the correct application process mentioned hereafter:
1. Applicants must choose the category for the application carefully.
2. They should ensure that the form is filled clearly since the decision/interview will be based on the information provided in the form and the research proposal written by the applicants.
3. Applications in the prescribed format only would be considered by the Institute.
4. The list of enclosures in the form should be submitted at the time of application.
5. A candidate can send up to two proposals, however only one will be selected for the scholarship programme.
6. The application form must be accompanied by the research proposal in approximately 2500 words.
7. The proposal document must follow the guidelines mentioned in Annexure 3 and must include the following sections:
- Title: The title of the project should be concise and precise (with subtitle, if any) reflecting the scope of the research programme.
- Aim: Broad aim of the project with an emphasis on the overall thrust of the proposed research programme.
- Overview of Literature: The problem in question should be logically linked to other studies on the theme, justifying the need for the present research.
- Identification of Research Gap, Statement of Problem, Research Question/Hypothesis: The research to be investigated should be clearly contextualised in the theoretical framework of the theme. The research questions need to be unequivocal.
- Objectives of the Proposed Research
- Conceptual Framework: The concepts to be used in the research framework, their applicability and relevance to the study and their operationalisation should be clearly mentioned.
- Methodology: The methodologies must indicate the various stages of the proposed research programme.
- Expected Potential Outcomes of the Research Programme: Expected potential outcomes of the research programme must be clearly mentioned.
- Work Plan
- Proposal for Budget to Conduct the Research Work: The budget must be prepared in line with the Financial Assistance Guidelines enclosed as Annexure 2.
8. Applicants must enclose copies of the following documents with the application form:
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Proof of educational qualification
- Experience letter(s)
- Published research paper(s)
- Two reference letters (current date) from experts who are familiar with the candidate’s work. These reference letters should be on the expert’s letterhead.
- Proof of Identity (self-attested copy) and applicants must ensure all enclosures are properly attached.
- The completed application form and research proposal along with the necessary documents are to be submitted through a Google Drive folder link.
- The name of the folder should be in the following format: [Scholar name]_[Category]_2023-24.
- The Google Drive link to the folder should be mailed to res1.iha@gmail.com with cached copy (cc) marked to dir.intachheritageacademy@gmail.com, admn.iha@gmail.com
9. The last date to send a complete application is Monday, 27th November 2023.
Selection Process
The applicants are expected to make sure that the application form and required documents pertaining to the submission are complete in all forms. A detailed process of selection shall be adhered to and they are as follows:
- The research proposals will undergo a process of detailed scrutiny in order to verify the inclusion of all essential paperwork.
- Applications that are found to be incomplete will not be eligible for further evaluation.
- A Review Selection Committee will be constituted for the evaluation of the applications received.
- The Director of INTACH Heritage Academy will convene the Selection Committee Meeting comprising three academics or domain experts in the field of heritage and two members from INTACH.
INTACH Research Scholarship
The INTACH Research Programme aims to promote interdisciplinary research in the field of heritage in alignment with the themes outlined in the research programme. Its objective is to cultivate knowledge by ensuring a profound comprehension of aspects associated with lesser-known heritage assets in India. It seeks to tackle the challenges and issues that heritage preservation encounters while also guiding future research and potential courses of action. The Scholarship is intended to support research that pushes the boundaries of existing knowledge on Indian heritage and explores new perspectives and methodologies. The term of the Scholarship is for a period of one year.
Awards
INTACH Research Scholarship – ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 each
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the INTACH Research Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Only persons of Indian nationality, domiciled and normally resident in India are eligible.
- Candidates should have a Master’s degree with a first division.
- They should have a minimum of four years of experience in the field or area of research they plan to undertake.
- They should have at least one publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Note:- INTACH Conveners and Members are eligible to apply under this category.
Submission of Budget Proposal and Release of Funds
Applicants are expected to submit a detailed budget estimate along with their research proposal. They should outline the following:
- Number of site visits
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation
- Assistance
- Miscellaneous support and expenses towards approved institutions or professional assistance subject to a prior approval of INTACH administration.
The applicants are expected to prepare the budget estimate in accordance with the Financial Assistance Guidelines provided in Annexure 2.
The Scholarship will be awarded to the selected scholars in four stages:
Stage 1: The first installment (25%) shall be released after acceptance of offer letter and completion of necessary formalities.
Stage 2: The second installment (25%) shall be released after having received a satisfactory evaluation of the first Progress Report, simple statement of account of first installment and work plan.
Stage 3: The third installment (25%) shall be released after having received a satisfactory evaluation of the second Progress Report, simple statement of accounts of the second installment and work plan.
Stage 4: This final installment (25%) shall be released after fulfillment of all completion requirements as listed.
The period of study would not be extended except in rare cases, due to unforeseen circumstances, with the approval of competent authority.
Process of Selection
Selected applicants will receive communication for finalising the potential outcomes and initiation of work.
Completion of Study
On completion of the study, the scholar should submit the following:
- Final Report of the research conducted in the stipulated year. It should be supported by recommendation of the expert for acceptance
- An unpublished research paper containing 3500 – 5000 words for INTACH Journal of Heritage Studies. Guidelines are enclosed in Annexure 3.
- Audited statement of accounts
Other Conditions:
The scholar and INTACH will own the rights of the research work resulting from the Scholarship programme. INTACH shall have the first right to publication/co-publication of the research work submitted by the scholar.
If INTACH does not publish it or enter into a co-publishing arrangement and provide support for the actual printing of the work, within one year after completion of the Scholarship, it will be the discretion of the scholar to get the same published through a private publisher with an acknowledgement of the contribution and rights of INTACH.
INTACH Research Fellowship
The INTACH Research Fellowship is awarded to only one individual in the respective research cycle. It is a full-time commitment for a period of one year during which the Fellow will contribute to the academic activities of the INTACH Heritage Academy, in addition to undertaking the research activities.
Awards
Intach Research Fellowship – ₹8,50,000
- The INTACH Research Fellowship shall carry an amount of ₹7,20,000. It would be subject to Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) as per the INTACH norms.
- Beyond this fellowship amount, expenses towards items as listed and allowed in the Financial Assistance Guidelines enclosed as Annexure 2 of up to ₹1,30,000 will be reimbursed subject to submission of bills.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the INTACH Research Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Only persons of Indian nationality, domiciled and normally resident in India are eligible.
- Candidates should have a Master’s degree with a first division.
- They should have a minimum of six years of experience in the field or area of research they plan to undertake.
- They should have at least two publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- If students have received a scholarship from INTACH for a research programme in the last three years, they can’t apply again.
Release of Funds for the Fellowship Programme
The INTACH Research Fellowship will be awarded to the Fellow in four stages. They are as follows:
Stage 1: The first installment (25%) shall be released after acceptance of offer letter and completion of necessary formalities.
Stage 2: The second installment (25%) shall be released after having received a satisfactory evaluation of the first Progress Report, simple statement of account of first installment and work plan.
Stage 3: The third installment (25%) shall be released after having received a satisfactory evaluation of the second Progress Report, simple statement of accounts of the second installment and work plan.
Stage 4: This final installment (25%) shall be released after fulfillment of all completion requirements as listed.
Terms of Engagement
The INTACH Research Fellow shall be expected to remain in residence for a minimum of six months. Their period of stay and time at INTACH is incumbent upon the applicant’s respective application and scope of research programme. This is a full-time commitment, so they can’t engage in full-time or part-time employment.
Students’ study time can’t be extended except in rare cases approved by INTACH authorities. During their period of residence at INTACH, they also need to help with academic activities at INTACH Heritage Academy. The Fellow will also contribute towards the development activities of the INTACH Heritage Academy (IHA). This will also include two presentations of the research activities at IHA, one in-process, and one before final report, to get public feedback prior to report finalisation. INTACH will not be responsible for the accommodation and transport during the residency period of the Fellow.
Support to Fellows
INTACH will provide infrastructural support to the candidate to enable them to undertake research activities. This may include a computer/laptop with required peripherals and connectivity including working space in the premises of INTACH, providing a congenial atmosphere to carry out research activities. Their attendance in residency shall be marked for record. They will be eligible for leave of absence for two working days in a month during their period of residency at INTACH.
Process of Selection
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews for the final screening and selection.
Completion of Study
Upon completion of the Fellowship programme, the Fellow should submit the following research documents:
- Final Report of the research undertaken in the stipulated year. It must be supported by the recommendation of the expert for acceptance.
- Formal acknowledgement from institution/organisation with regard to the delivery of one public lecture on the subject of their research under the Fellowship Programme.
- Proof of publishing a research paper in a peer-reviewed journal and the publication must mention due acknowledgment to INTACH’s Research Programme.
- An unpublished research paper between 5000-7000 words for INTACH Journal of Heritage Studies on the basis of guidelines enclosed in the Annexure 3.
- Audited Statement of Accounts.
Other Conditions:
The scholar and INTACH will own the rights of the research work resulting from the Fellowship programme. INTACH shall have the first right to publication/co-publication of the research work submitted by the Fellow.
If INTACH does not publish it or enter into a co-publishing arrangement and provide support for the actual printing of the work, within one year after completion of the Fellowship , it will be the discretion of the Fellow to get the same published through a private publisher with an acknowledgement of the contribution and rights of INTACH.
Monitoring and Review of the Research Work Programme
Monitoring and evaluation of the research work of the Fellow and Scholars shall be done in the following stages:
- At the interim level after the first four months
- Second evaluation after the next four months
- Blind peer-review on submission of the draft report
- Review of final report to verify if the feedback from peer-review is incorporated
- Fellow and Scholars will receive feedback after each stage of evaluation.
- Draft reports of the scholars will be evaluated for plagiarism
- It must be ensured by the Fellow and Scholars that the similarity index should not exceed 15%.
The feedback from peer-review will be shared with the Fellow and Scholars for incorporation in the final report.
Withdrawal of the Fellowship/Scholarship Programme
INTACH reserves the right to terminate or withhold the release of funds at any stage of the programme under the following circumstances:
- The selected candidate remains unresponsive to the stages of submission.
- The selected candidate is unable to deliver on the expected research outcomes.
- The selected candidate is unable to provide a valid justification for the expenses incurred during the research program or furnish the necessary evidence as stipulated in the Financial Assistance Guidelines.
- During the course of the program, if there is a change in the scholar’s work status or circumstances that impedes their ability to continue the research within the specified timeframe, they are required to promptly inform the research coordinator or the head of the program at the INTACH Heritage Academy.
Communication Details
- Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)
71, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi 110 003 - Direct Line: 011-24627371
- Email: admn.iha@gmail.com
Ashoka Fellowships in Ancient and Medieval Indian History/Archaeology
Ashoka University is named after the Emperor Ashoka who represented India’s highest values and ideals. His policy of Dhamma revolved around liberal thought and education. Drawing from Emperor Ashoka’s life of learning and transformation, Ashoka University provides education that is liberal, multidisciplinary, as well as interdisciplinary in approach. It offers a diverse and inclusive space for its students to think deeply and critically, and learn across disciplinary boundaries. Students are encouraged to explore ideas, engage in research, and focus on values and ideals of the highest order to experience self-transformation.
Ashoka University is India’s first Liberal Arts and Sciences Research University. It is situated near Delhi. Recognized as one of India’s top universities, Ashoka boasts a world-class faculty in all academic disciplines.
The Centre for Interdisciplinary Archaeological Research (CIAR) at Ashoka University offers fellowships in ancient and medieval Indian history/archaeology. The fellowship aims to promote field research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and documentation of various historical artifacts, including archaeological remains, museum collections, manuscripts, vernacular writings, and archives.
Eligibility Criteria
- Scholars from all over India with a proven track record of excellence in research in ancient and medieval Indian history/archaeology are encouraged to apply.
- Fellows are expected to publish an article based on their research interest during the fellowship and engage with the community in Ashoka University.
- A seminar presentation on the project is encouraged.
Benefits
- Selected Fellow will receive a grant of ₹3.0 lakhs for a duration of 18-months.
Application Procedure
- Interested scholars should submit a detailed curriculum vitae along with a research vision statement for ancient and medieval Indian history/archaeology to the Ashoka Research Office at research.office@ashoka.edu.in by May 31, 2023.
| Note:- Only shortlisted candidates will be notified and invited for interviews. |
Diversity and Inclusivity
- Ashoka University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Women and individuals from traditionally disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply for under this fellowships programme.
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
The Indian Council of Historical Research Junior Research fellowship provides a monthly stipend of ₹17,600 and a contingency grant of ₹16,500 per annum.
It spans over a period of two years and can be extended for an additional year under special circumstances without additional financial obligations.
Eligibility for Fellowship
Candidates pursuing a PhD programme in history or related fields at recognized universities are eligible to apply under the fellowship programme.
Selection Process
Admission to the Fellowship is based on an entrance examination, with standard reservations for SC, ST, and PWD candidates.
A JRF Committee or Peer Group is formed by the Council to establish selection guidelines and oversee research activities of the Fellow.
Exclusivity of Fellowship
- Fellowship programme requires full-time engagement in research and cannot be combined with any other full-time or part-time employment.
- Fellow can retain previous employment, taking leave during the fellowship, and may accept part-time teaching or research assignments with Research Projects Committee approval.
- Fellows must submit semi-annual and annual progress reports, with the first annual report evaluated by an expert.
Fellowship Termination
- Fellowship terminates two months after the Fellow submits their PhD thesis, for which the fellowship was granted.
- Unsatisfactory research progress may lead to discontinuation of the fellowship, and fellowship funds may be recovered in such cases.
- Unsatisfactory research progress may lead to discontinuation of the fellowship, and fellowship funds may be recovered in such cases.
Withholding of the Last Installment
- The last installment, including the last three months of the fellowship and contingency, will be withheld if the Fellow fails to submit their monographs, books, or theses within the stipulated time.
- When publishing their work, Fellow must acknowledge the ICHR Fellowship.
As we conclude our exploration of these fellowships and scholarships programmes exclusively meant for students pursuing history, Buddy4Study sincerely hopes that the students would have gained valuable insights into the exciting opportunities that await those who feel passionate about the discipline. For students interested in unraveling the mysteries of Indian heritage, engaging in interdisciplinary research, or pursuing their doctoral journey, these programs are here to support and empower them.
Remember, the study of history not only enriches our understanding of the past but also shapes our future. So, take that first step toward historical endeavors, and let these opportunities propel students toward a future filled with discovery, knowledge, and the preservation of our shared heritage. Embrace the passion for history and embark on a remarkable journey of exploration and learning.
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Fellowships and Scholarships for Students of History – FAQs
What is the difference between fellowships and scholarships?
Scholarships are typically financial awards given to support a student’s education, covering tuition fees, books, and living expenses. Fellowships, on the other hand, are broader in scope and often support academic or research endeavors, including living expenses, research costs, and sometimes a stipend for the recipient.
How can students increase their chances of receiving a history fellowship or scholarship?
To improve the chances of the candidates, they must focus on crafting a strong application, showcasing their passion for history, academic excellence, and the relevance of their research proposal. Besides, receiving strong letters of recommendation and meeting all application deadlines create a win-win situation.
What are the key themes for INTACH Research Scholarship?
The proposed themes for INTACH Research Programme include nature-culture linkages, built heritage typologies, heritage conservation, traditional materials and techniques, traditional knowledge, influences across boundaries, heritage tourism, heritage education, and heritage interpretation and presentation.
What is the difference between an INTACH Research Fellowship and an INTACH Research Scholarship?
The INTACH Research Scholarship is typically for a shorter duration period, This is open to scholars with a minimum of four years of research experience, and provides a specific grant amount. On the other hand, the INTACH Research Fellowship is a full-time commitment, requires a higher level of research experience, and offers a larger stipend with additional financial support.
What rights do scholars and INTACH have with regard to the research work under the Scholarship programme?
Scholars and INTACH share rights to the research work resulting under the Scholarship programme. INTACH has the first right to publication or co-publication of the research work.
What is the purpose of the Ashoka Fellowships in Ancient and Medieval Indian History and Archaeology?
The Ashoka Fellowship programme aims to promote field research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and documentation of historical artifacts, including archaeological remains, manuscripts, and archives.
What happens if a JRF Fellow fails to submit their research work within the stipulated time?
If a Fellow fails to submit their research work within the stipulated time, the last installment under the fellowship programme may be withheld.