Japan LOTUS Programme 2026: INR 25.6 Lakh Funding for Indian Master’s and PhD Students

Japan is inviting 1,000 Indian scholars for the LOTUS 2026 program. Master’s and PhD students can get up to INR 25.6 lakh per year to study in Japan. This is a great chance to research AI, Robotics, and Biotech. Apply by June 9.

The Government of Japan has announced the LOTUS Programme 2026 for Indian students and researchers. The programme is open for Master’s students, PhD scholars, and postdoctoral researchers. Around 1,000 researchers from India will get the opportunity to work in Japan on research projects.

The programme supports joint research, career development, and international research experience at Japanese universities and research institutions.

Funding and Financial Support for Lotus Programme

The LOTUS Programme has two tracks: LOTUS Basic and LOTUS Aspire.

LOTUS Basic Programme

This track is for shorter research stays of up to one year.

• Monthly Allowance: You get INR 1,40,000 (YEN 2,40,000) every month for rent and food.

• Duration: This support lasts for up to 12 months.

• Supervisor Support: The program gives INR 2,90,000 (YEN 5,00,000) per year.

• What it covers: This extra money pays for research materials, travel within Japan, and stay costs for your Indian supervisor.

LOTUS Aspire Programme

This track is for longer research projects and offers more funding.

• Monthly Allowance: You get the same INR 1,40,000 (YEN 2,40,000) every month.

• Duration: This support is much longer, lasting up to 36 months.

• Supervisor Support: The funding is higher at INR 8,80,000 (YEN 1.5 million) per year.

• What it covers: It pays for everything in the Basic plan, plus extra travel costs for both the student and researchers inside Japan.

Students who are enrolled in MS and PhD courses can apply for it. Age should not be more than 40 years. Must apply through a Principal Investigator in Japan. Direct applications are not allowed.

Important Dates for Lotus Programme

Students should remember these dates:

• Application deadline: June 9, 2026

• Selection process: June to August 2026

• Results announcement: Late August 2026

• Programme start: October 2026

Research Fields

The programme focuses on important research areas:

• Artificial Intelligence

• Biotechnology

• Energy

• Materials Science

• Quantum Technology

• Semiconductors

• Telecommunications

The LOTUS Programme 2026 is a major research opportunity for Indian students and researchers who want international research experience in Japan with financial support.