The scheme was started for students from deprived and economically weaker sections of the society and aims to give them an avenue for undertaking advanced studies and research. The aim is to give financial assistance for those who belong to the Scheduled Tribe category for pursuing higher studies leading to M.Phil and Ph.D degrees in Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences and Engineering & Technology. It gives an opportunity to 667 students from the Scheduled Tribe every year for all the subjects.

The Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship for ST candidate tenure is for two years at the start. However, before expiry of the two years, the work of Fellow would be assessed by a Committee of three members. If research work is found satisfactory, then the tenure shall be extended for three years under Rajiv Gandhi National Senior Research Fellowship (RGNSRF) for which the amount is different. While the amount provided under the fellowship is Rs.16,000 for first two years, it is Rs.18,000 for the next three years. Besides this, an additional contingency amount of Rs.10,000 is available under Contingency A for first two years and Rs.25,000 for next three years whereas the amount is Rs.12,000 and Rs.25,000 under Contingency B.

Suitable single-seated hostel accommodation would be given to RGNJRF candidate in University. However, the fellow shall be paid if no such place is available under the HRA norms of the Central government.