Queries that are not responded adequately on official page

• What to write in "references"?

It could have a teacher, friend, superior at workplace or relative's name and details. Main factor is to include somebody who has analysed your academic and/or work abilities closely in the past. I recommend college professor for freshers and manager for working people. Please avoid your parents or your relatives with whom you have not worked.

• what is the salary/allowances during the fellowship and field placements?

The Fellows shall be entitled to a consolidated stipend package of Rs.50,000 per month during the orientation period (3 month training) and  Rs.75,000 per month during the first year, and a 10% increment during the second year and third year of Fellowship, subject to the Fellow’s satisfactory performance as determined by NRLPS  in consultation with Programme Mentor (i.e. TISS etc.). 

• What about accommodation, food, etc.?

"This package shall be deemed to cover the Fellow’s honorarium, boarding and lodging expenses during the orientation period, accommodation/house rent during the rest of the Fellowship period, health insurance, life and  disability insurance cover and any other contingency expenses." It means that they will not provide any housing or even local travel facility. Although travel to other cities etc. would be reimbursed.

• what after the 3 years of commitment ? Is there any further assistance for getting job?

"PMRD Fellowships are intended to provide young professionals interested in a career related to rural development in general and tribal areas in  particular, a rich experience to improve their value in employment market.  Fellowships are not linked to jobs. It is expected that Fellows will be sought after by Rural Development agencies at State level and Tribal Development organisations for their knowledge and expertise. Corporate bodies engaged in CSR work in rural areas, NGOs and other Consultancy organisations  are also expected to recruit Fellows  for their experience. The NRLPS will facilitate this process by providing a campus recruitment mechanism."

It means that there would be placement assistance but certainly no guarantee is being provided.

• Do we have to sign a bond/ agreement?

Yes, there is a clause for maintaining fixed duration of course. See the actual agreement from last year here. Apart from this their site mentions refund of entire stipend amounts paid till date of leaving too, but it can be waived under some circumstances (although does not specifically mention such circumstances).

• What is the AICAT pattern, duration, timing etc.?

See our previous article here.

Note: All the information given is duly been obtained through the official website and through current fellows in a few instances.