Students Federation demands reinstatement of MANF Scholarship for minority students

UGC JRF, NFSC, NFST, and NFOBC awardees have begun receiving their revised fellowship amounts along with pending arrears, however, MANF scholars have been left in limbo

The recent decision of the Union government to discontinue the Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) for upcoming batches has sparked controversy and widespread criticism. The move, perceived as discriminatory, continues to exacerbate the disparity by selectively withholding an increase in stipends for existing MANF fellows.

As per SFI (Students Federation of India) this is a deliberate neglect and an act of discrimination against minority students, impacting their academic pursuits and aspirations.

The research fellowships including the National Fellowship for Scheduled Castes (NFSC), National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST), National Fellowship for Other Backward Classes (NFOBC), and Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) for minority students are mandated to provide stipends equivalent to the fellowship amounts of the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).

Recent developments indicate that the University Grants Commission (UGC) approved a hike in research fellowships this year, elevating the stipend from ₹31,000 to ₹37,000 for JRF and from ₹35,000 to ₹42,000 for SRF following persistent demands from students. Consequently, UGC JRF, NFSC, NFST, and NFOBC awardees have begun receiving their revised fellowship amounts along with pending arrears. However, MANF scholars have been left in limbo, without any information or updates on the anticipated hike.

This selective withholding of the MANF hike has triggered accusations of communal bias and targeting of students hailing from minority communities. Critics assert that the BJP-led government's decision is politically motivated and could significantly impact the future of numerous research scholars across the country.

In response to this alleged injustice, the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) has raised urgent concerns, demanding an immediate hike in the Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF). They emphasize the disparity between MANF and other fellowships such as UGC JRF, NFOBC, NFSC/ST, highlighting the need for equal treatment in education irrespective of religious affiliations.

The SFI has called for the reinstatement of MANF and urges the government to streamline the disbursement process, ensuring prompt resolution of delays. Additionally, they have encouraged university students to organize protest demonstrations against the government's decision.

Mayukh Biswas (General Secretary), SFI said: “The plight of minority students in accessing equal educational opportunities remains a pressing concern, urging authorities to address this issue promptly and ensure fair treatment for all aspiring scholars regardless of their background."

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