Scholarships in India for Environmental Science Students

Environmental science has emerged as a critical field in addressing global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource management. Aspiring eco-studies students in India often face financial constraints while pursuing this impactful field. Fortunately, several scholarships and funding opportunities are available to support their education. This guide highlights key scholarships and grants for environmental science students in India, helping them turn their ambitions into reality.

1. Inspire Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)

Offered by: Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
Eligibility:

Students in the top 1% of their 12th-grade class.
Enrollment in undergraduate or integrated postgraduate programs in science, including environmental science.
Scholarship Benefits:
Annual scholarship of ₹80,000 for a maximum of five years.

This program aims to foster talent in basic sciences and encourage careers in research and development.

2. National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Scholarships

Offered by: Government of India
Eligibility:

Various scholarships are available based on merit, financial need, or minority status.
Open to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate programs in environmental science or related fields.
Scholarship Benefits:
Vary based on the specific scheme, including tuition fee waivers, stipends, and book grants.

The NSP acts as a one-stop platform for accessing multiple scholarships funded by the central and state governments.

3. The Green Energy Scholarship Program

Offered by: Various CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Initiatives
Eligibility:

Students enrolled in renewable energy or sustainability-related courses.
Merit-based selection with additional preference for economically disadvantaged students.
Scholarship Benefits:
Covers tuition fees and offers additional grants for research projects.

These programs are often supported by companies in the renewable energy sector to promote eco-friendly education.

4. K. C. Mahindra Scholarships for Post-Graduate Studies Abroad

Offered by: K. C. Mahindra Education Trust
Eligibility:

Indian students seeking postgraduate studies abroad in environmental science, sustainability, or renewable energy.
Scholarship Benefits:
Loan scholarships up to ₹8 lakhs.

This scholarship is ideal for students planning to specialize in advanced environmental studies at international universities.

5. Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund Scholarships

Offered by: Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund
Eligibility:

Students pursuing postgraduate studies in environmental science or related disciplines.
Must have a minimum of 60% marks in their previous degree.
Scholarship Benefits:
₹18,000 per month for two years.
Annual contingent expenses of ₹15,000.

This prestigious scholarship supports students in their pursuit of academic excellence in key fields like environmental science.

6. Indian Oil Academic Scholarships

Offered by: Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
Eligibility:

Undergraduate students enrolled in environmental science, engineering, or allied courses.
Selection based on merit and financial need.
Scholarship Benefits:
₹1,000 per month for two years.

This CSR initiative encourages students to explore sustainable practices in energy and resource management.

7. CSIR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)

Offered by: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
Eligibility:

Postgraduate students in environmental science pursuing research or doctoral studies.
Must qualify for the CSIR-NET exam.
Scholarship Benefits:
₹31,000 per month for the first two years, followed by ₹35,000 per month for the next three years.

This fellowship is ideal for students interested in research-intensive careers in sustainability and environmental technologies.

8. Raman-Charpak Fellowship

Offered by: Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (IFCPAR/CEFIPRA)
Eligibility:

Indian students enrolled in a master’s or Ph.D. program in environmental science.
Open for research internships in France.
Scholarship Benefits:
Monthly stipend of €1,500.
Travel expenses and health insurance coverage.

This fellowship promotes international collaboration in environmental research and innovation.

9. Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child

Offered by: University Grants Commission (UGC)
Eligibility:

Single girl children enrolled in postgraduate programs, including environmental science.
Scholarship Benefits:
₹36,200 per year for two years.

The scholarship encourages higher education for women, contributing to gender equality in academic pursuits.

10. WWF-India Small Grants Program

Offered by: World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-India)
Eligibility:

Students conducting field-based research on environmental conservation or sustainability.
Scholarship Benefits:
Grants up to ₹4 lakhs for research and project implementation.

This program supports innovative research projects that contribute to ecological preservation and biodiversity.

11. Tata Trusts Scholarship for Masters in Environmental Science

Offered by: Tata Trusts
Eligibility:

Students pursuing master’s programs in environmental science or sustainability studies.
Scholarship Benefits:
Covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.

Tata Trusts aim to empower students to drive meaningful change in sustainability and environmental management.

12. Vidyasaarathi Scholarships

Offered by: NSDL e-Governance
Eligibility:

Students enrolled in environmental science or renewable energy courses.
Preference for economically weaker sections.
Scholarship Benefits:
Varies based on the scholarship program.

This platform connects students with various industry-sponsored scholarships for higher education.

13. Nalanda University Scholarships

Offered by: Nalanda University, Bihar
Eligibility:

Students enrolled in postgraduate programs in ecology, environment, and sustainable development.
Scholarship Benefits:
Tuition fee waivers and living expense support.

Nalanda University emphasizes interdisciplinary education and global sustainability.

14. MoEFCC National Fellowship Program

Offered by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India
Eligibility:

Students undertaking research in environmental conservation, wildlife, or sustainability.
Scholarship Benefits:
Monthly stipend and contingency grants for fieldwork and publications.

This program encourages research that aligns with national environmental priorities.

15. Global Indian Earth Science Scholarships

Offered by: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), Government of India
Eligibility:

Students pursuing earth science-related disciplines, including environmental science.
Scholarship Benefits:
Financial support for academic and research expenses.

This initiative supports students contributing to climate resilience and disaster management.

Conclusion

The growing demand for skilled professionals in environmental science has led to an increase in scholarships for students passionate about making a difference. By leveraging these funding opportunities, students can focus on their studies and contribute to a sustainable future.

Call to Action:
If you’re an aspiring environmental science student, explore these scholarships and apply early to secure your funding.

Scholarships in India for Environmental Science Students