From Financial Barriers to Academic Progress: Samir Makhal's Journey with NFSC

The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment highlights the impact of the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste Students (NFSC) scheme through the case of Shri Samir Makhal, a 33-year-old Ph.D. scholar from Howrah district, West Bengal. Makhal faced severe financial constraints, limited research opportunities, and family responsibilities that delayed his doctoral studies. Since receiving NFSC assistance starting in May 2020—including the fellowship, House Rent Allowance, and contingency support—he met educational and daily expenses, improved his access to study materials and laboratory facilities, and achieved greater financial stability to focus on academic goals.