Research scholars await stipend from UGC

Divya Sharma

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, September 21

The research scholars at Guru Nanak Dev University are under stress as they haven’t received stipend from the UGC under their discontinued UGC-UPE fellowship scheme.

Around 80 research scholars of the university from various departments have not received any money since September 2017. The students also claimed that new students, who were registered in May-August 2017, are also suffering due to it.

It has not only left the scholars disappointed, but also affected their research work. The problem becomes manifold for students who are living away from their homes. Under the scheme, the scholars were receiving an amount of Rs 8,000-16,000 per month.

“It is about living, carrying out research efficiently at the same time. It is difficult to concentrate on research work. One is required to manage cost of buying chemicals, attend conferences,” said one of the students. The students have registered their complaint at the government portal but to no avail.

The students also stated that a team of UGC-UPE met, verified the record related to researchers of the university. The UGC panel had also interacted with the scholars.

The researchers are keen on holding a protest if the funds are not released in time.

Jaspal Singh Sandhu, Vice-Chancellor, Guru Nanak Dev University, said, “The scheme has been discontinued but we are trying our best to make sure that these scholars receive sufficient funds. The scheme has been discontinued by the UGC. I am in touch with the authorities concerned for the release of funds.”