IIT Kharagpur Launches Director’s Platinum Jubilee Excellence Fellowships

IIT Kharagpur has announced the launch of the Director’s Platinum Jubilee Excellence Fellowship (DPEF) on September 10, 2026. This initiative celebrates the institute's 75 years of education, research, and innovation while recognizing high-performing candidates from national-level entrance exams. The DPEF will be awarded to the top 50 rankers of the GATE 2026 examination who choose to pursue a PhD at IIT Kharagpur. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 80,000 for the first two years and Rs 90,000 for the following three years, providing substantial financial support for their academic pursuits.

In addition to GATE rankers, the DPEF has been extended to the top 50 JAM 2026 rankers who opt for master’s programs at IIT Kharagpur. This broadening of eligibility demonstrates the institute's commitment to merit-based incentives beyond just JEE Advanced achievers. The fellowship does not require a separate application, simplifying the process for eligible candidates and ensuring that deserving students receive recognition for their academic excellence. The introduction of the DPEF aligns with IIT Kharagpur’s mission to attract and support talented individuals in the fields of science and engineering.

By providing financial assistance to top rankers, the institute aims to foster a conducive environment for advanced research and innovation. This initiative is part of a broader trend among Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to enhance support for students excelling in competitive examinations, thereby encouraging more students to pursue higher education in STEM fields. The fellowships offered by IIT Kharagpur are part of a series of scholarships being introduced across various IITs. For instance, IIT Kanpur has launched the Bright Minds Scholarship for students in the top 100 of the All India JEE Advanced ranking, offering Rs 3 lakh per year.

Similarly, IIT Delhi provides the Amit and Deepali Sinha Foundation Scholarship for first-year undergraduate students based on their JEE Advanced rank and family income criteria. These initiatives collectively aim to promote academic excellence and support students from diverse backgrounds. Looking ahead, the DPEF is expected to play a significant role in attracting talented individuals to IIT Kharagpur, enhancing its reputation as a leading institution for higher education. The fellowship will not only provide financial support but also encourage a culture of research and innovation among students.

As IIT Kharagpur continues to build on its legacy of excellence, initiatives like the DPEF will be crucial in shaping the future of education and research in India.