Sardar Patel University Scholar Wins Prime Minister’s Fellowship

A researcher from the physics department at Sardar Patel University (SPU) has earned national acclaim by receiving the prestigious Prime Minister’s Fellowship for Doctoral Research (PMFDR). Vidhi Singh, who is currently pursuing her PhD in the optics laboratory under the supervision of Prof. Arun Anand, was selected for the fellowship, which is administered by the Confederation of Indian Industry – Anusandhan National Research Foundation (CII–ANRF).

Singh’s selection was confirmed during an apex council meeting held in November 2023, with the announcement coming shortly thereafter. She is one of only seven candidates chosen from the science stream across the country in the latest PMFDR cycle. Notably, Singh is the only awardee from Gujarat, as well as the only recipient from a state university and the first scholar from SPU to achieve this honor.

As part of the PMFDR programme, Singh has established an industry-academia collaboration with A-Sky Instruments. This partnership, which includes support from an industry mentor, aims to translate academic research into practical applications within the industrial sector. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between the CII, Sardar Patel University, the industry partner, and Singh herself.

The recognition of Singh not only elevates her personal academic journey but also enhances the reputation of Sardar Patel University on a national scale. The PMFDR is designed to foster innovation and encourage research that directly benefits industries in India. Singh’s work, focusing on optics, stands to contribute significantly to advancements in this field.

In recent years, the PMFDR has become a highly sought-after fellowship, attracting top talent from prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Singh’s achievement highlights the potential of state universities to produce outstanding research scholars capable of competing on a national platform.

Singh’s journey reflects a growing trend in academia where collaboration between educational institutions and industry is becoming increasingly vital. This approach not only enhances the relevance of academic research but also ensures that innovations can be effectively implemented in real-world scenarios.

As Singh continues her research, her efforts will likely inspire future generations of scholars at Sardar Patel University and beyond. The integration of academic knowledge with industry practices is essential for driving progress and making significant contributions to science and technology.