AIRSA raises concern over delay in release of NFOBC scholars fund; Kerala MP demands urgent action

NEW DELHI: The All India Research Scholars Association (AIRSA) has raised concerns over the delay in disbursement of fellowship funds by the National Fellowship for Other Backward Classes (NFOBC) fellowship.

Former education minister of Kerala and member of parliament ET Mohammed Basheer has urged the ministry of social justice and empowerment for immediate action.

The prolonged delays in stipend payments have impacted the financial stability, mental well-being, and academic progress of scholars, the AIRSA official statement said.

“NFOBC scholars have long demanded fellowship disbursal, with their plea still pending. The member of parliament ET Mohammed Basheer has acknowledged the issue, pushing for prompt action.” AIRSA wrote in a post on its official X account.

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NFOBC fellowship: Scholars’ challenges

The letter from AIRSA has highlighted critical issues faced by NFOBC scholars nationwide.

The letter underscores a systemic breakdown in fellowship fund disbursement, revealing that thousands of NFOBC scholars have been left financially vulnerable. Despite an announced fellowship increment in January 2023, scholars have faced chronic fund shortages, with many of them receiving no financial support till June 2024.

Multiple communication efforts by scholars have gone unaddressed creating a stark contrast with other fellowship programmes such as the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste (NFSC), which continue to disburse funds punctually. This differential treatment has introduced unnecessary inequality in the academic ecosystem, the letter alleged.

AIRSA has demanded transparent communication, specific timelines for fund releases, and immediate resolution of the persistent financial bottlenecks, including arrears and annual budget allocation. It is also demanding a proper grievance redressal mechanism.