1. Introduction

If you are a postgraduate who has cleared NET and are looking for a serious research career-not just another temporary fellowship-this CCRAS recruitment deserves your attention. Many research aspirants in India struggle to find funded Ph.D. opportunities that offer both academic credibility and financial stability. This fellowship sits at that intersection.

What makes this opening different is its focus on non-AYUSH, non-medical candidates working within the AYUSH research ecosystem. In simple terms, CCRAS is inviting mainstream science graduates-life sciences, biostatistics, physical sciences, social sciences-to contribute to evidence-based research in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Naturopathy. For candidates who want to work at the policy-science interface, this is a meaningful opportunity.

This fellowship is best suited for aspirants who are genuinely inclined toward long-term research, not those looking for a stop-gap job while preparing for other exams.

2. Key Details Table

ItemDetails
Recruiting BodyCentral Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)
Fellowship TypePh.D. Fellowship / Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Total Fellowships20
Research StreamsCCRAS (Ayurveda-related research) - 16, CCRYN (Yoga & Naturopathy) - 4
Mode of ApplicationOffline
Last Date06 February 2026
Selection ProcessInterview
Official Websitehttps://www.ccras.nic.in

3. Post-Wise Eligibility (Explained Clearly)

Educational Qualification - What It Really Means

The notification mentions Post Graduation in Biomedical Sciences, but this is broader than many candidates assume. Eligible disciplines include:

  • Life Sciences (Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, etc.)
  • Chemical Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Social Sciences
  • Biostatistics

However, the non-negotiable requirement is a valid NET certificate. Without NET, the application will not be considered, regardless of your academic record.

Category-Specific Focus

This fellowship is specifically targeted at:

  • SC / ST
  • OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
  • Persons with lower locomotor disability
  • Female candidates

If you fall outside these categories, you should read the official notification carefully to confirm applicability. Do not assume eligibility.

Who Is Actually Suitable

You are a strong fit if:

  • You plan to register for a Ph.D. under a recognised university
  • You are comfortable working in interdisciplinary research settings
  • You can defend your research interest in an interview

You are not a good fit if:

  • You only want a stipend without committing to a Ph.D.
  • You are preparing full-time for unrelated competitive exams
  • You are unwilling to relocate or work under council-led research themes

4. How to Apply - Guided Walkthrough

This is an offline application, which itself creates room for mistakes. Follow this carefully:

  1. Visit the official CCRAS or CCRYN website and download Annexure-I (application form).
  2. Decide which council you are applying to (CCRAS or CCRYN). Apply separately if eligible.
  3. Fill the form manually or digitally, ensuring consistency with your certificates.
  4. Attach self-attested copies of:
    • PG marksheets
    • NET certificate
    • Category certificate (if applicable)
    • Age proof
  5. Send the completed application to the respective council address before the deadline.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Sending the application to the wrong council
  • Missing NET certificate validity details
  • Assuming email submission is allowed (it is not, unless explicitly stated)
  • Ignoring postal delays-send early

5. Salary, Growth & Career Outlook

This fellowship is financially competitive by Indian research standards:

  • JRF: ₹37,000 + HRA per month
  • SRF (after 2-3 years): ₹42,000 + HRA per month

In addition:

  • ₹20,000 annual contingency to the institution
  • Opportunity to apply for a one-time research grant up to ₹1 lakh

From a career perspective, fellows often progress to:

  • Senior Research Fellow roles
  • Ph.D. completion with government-backed research exposure
  • Positions in research councils, universities, policy think tanks, or funded projects

This is not just a stipend-it is a research pipeline.

6. Preparation Plan & Study Strategy

Since selection is interview-based, preparation is qualitative, not exam-driven.

30-45 Day Focus Plan

  • Week 1-2: Finalise Ph.D. research interest aligned with CCRAS themes
  • Week 3: Read recent CCRAS publications and project reports
  • Week 4: Prepare a concise research proposal idea (even if not asked)

Resources

  • CCRAS annual reports
  • Ministry of AYUSH research publications
  • Basics of research methodology and ethics

Daily 2-3 hours of focused reading is sufficient if done consistently.

7. Pros & Cons (Honest Assessment)

Pros

  • Strong monthly stipend
  • Government-backed research credibility
  • Clear Ph.D. pathway
  • Low written-exam stress

Cons

  • Limited seats (20 nationwide)
  • Offline application increases rejection risk
  • Highly interview-dependent
  • Not suitable for those unsure about research careers

8. Checklist for Applicants

Before sending your application, confirm:

  • Age within limit (28 years + applicable relaxation)
  • Valid NET certificate
  • Correct council selected
  • All documents self-attested
  • Application sent well before 06 February 2026

9. Conclusion

This CCRAS fellowship is not for everyone-and that is exactly why it is valuable. If you are serious about research, patient with academic timelines, and interested in contributing to evidence-based AYUSH studies from a modern scientific lens, this is a solid opportunity.

Apply thoughtfully, not hurriedly. A well-prepared interview matters more here than flashy credentials.

10. FAQs

Is this a permanent government job?
No. It is a fellowship linked to Ph.D. research.

Can I apply without NET?
No. NET is mandatory.

Is the Ph.D. admission guaranteed?
No. You must secure Ph.D. registration separately under a recognised university.

Can I apply to both CCRAS and CCRYN?
Yes, if eligible, but apply separately and clearly.

What if my university delays Ph.D. registration?
You should clarify timelines during the interview to avoid fellowship issues later.