ASEAN-India Research Training Fellowship 2026: Support for Young Researchers from ASEAN to Conduct Research in India
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Quick answer
The ASEAN-India Research Training Fellowship (AI-RTF) supports talented researchers from ASEAN countries to conduct research at Indian institutions. Up to 50 fellowships are awarded annually for a period of two to six months. Applicants can apply online through the official portal by submitting required documents.
At a glance
| Main benefit | Full financial support for research in India |
| Ministry / department | Ministry Of Science And Technology |
| Level | Central Government |
| Age | Up to 45 years |
| Application mode | Online |
About the scheme
The ASEAN-India Research Training Fellowship (AI-RTF) is a programme launched by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, to promote research collaboration between ASEAN countries and India. It offers young scientists and researchers from ASEAN member states the opportunity to work at Indian research and academic institutions. The scheme aims to enhance research skills, facilitate information exchange, and build networks for future collaborations. Selected fellows receive full financial support, including airfare, a monthly stipend, and a one-time research grant.
Benefits
- Round trip international airfare by lowest economy class.
- A consolidated fellowship amount of INR 60,000 per month.
- A one-time grant of INR 40,000 for research expenses.
- Institutional overhead charges of INR 2,500 per month.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Applicant must be a national of an ASEAN Member Country.
- Possess at least a Master’s Degree in Natural Sciences or an equivalent in Technology/Engineering/Medicine/ allied disciplines.
- Working/studying or affiliated with a national R&D or academic institution in their home ASEAN country.
- Upper age limit is 45 years as of the application date.
Who cannot apply
- Indian nationals are not eligible.
- Applicants who have availed of any Indian government fellowship in the last 3 years are not eligible.
Documents required
- CV of applicant
- CV of Indian host
- Copy of relevant pages of valid Passport
- Endorsement letter from present employer (prescribed format)
- Acceptance letter from Indian scientist/institution (prescribed format)
How to apply
- 1Register on the ASEAN online portal at https://aistic.gov.in/ASEAN/Registration.
- 2Login after registration to access the application form.
- 3Fill all mandatory profile details including bio-data and institute address.
- 4Enter proposal details such as project title, summary, objectives, and expected outcomes.
- 5Verify all details and submit the application.
- 6Upload the proposal document as a single PDF not exceeding 10 MB.
Frequently asked questions
What is the “ASEAN-India Research Training Fellowship” scheme?+
It is a fellowship scheme supported by the ASEAN-India Science & Technology Development Fund to enable young researchers from ASEAN countries to conduct research at Indian institutions.
What is the objective of scheme?+
To promote mobility of scientists from ASEAN countries to India, facilitate research skill development, and foster collaboration and networking.
Which agency manages this scheme?+
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), New Delhi.
What are the eligibility criteria?+
Applicants must be from ASEAN countries, hold at least a Master’s Degree in natural or allied sciences, be affiliated with a national R&D or academic institution, and be under 45 years of age.
Are Indian nationals eligible?+
No, Indian nationals are not eligible.
What fields are covered?+
Fields include Agricultural Sciences, Biological and Medical Sciences, Chemical Sciences & Engineering, Computer Science & Engineering, Physical Sciences and Mathematics, Ocean, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Materials, Minerals and Metallurgy, Science Policy/IPR Management/Technology Transfer & Commercialization, and other multidisciplinary areas aligned with APASTI.
What support is provided?+
Full financial assistance including airfare, a monthly stipend of INR 60,000, a research grant of INR 40,000, and institutional overhead charges.
How many fellowships are awarded annually?+
Fifty fellowships.
What is the fellowship duration?+
Two to six months, with no extensions allowed.
How to apply?+
Apply online via the official portal at https://aistic.gov.in/ASEAN/aistdfFellowship.
NaukriZila is not a government website. Apply only on the official portal; never pay anyone to apply for a government scheme. Source: myScheme (Government of India)