The Scholarship scheme for Women Scientists for societal programmes is a recent initiative of the Department of Science & Technology to maximally utilize the human resource of women scientists for development of the country.

Objectives:

• Utilize the skills and ideas of the applicant to participate in the developmental process of the country

• Develop confidence of applicant to take up programmes of application of science and technology.

• Sensitize & enthuse others scientists to take up projects addressing the needs of people in unorganized urban or rural areas.

• Provide opportunity for S&T capacity building of applicant on issues relevant in societal programmes and

• Provide an opportunity for women scientists to re-enter into active research after a career break.
   

Project proposals could be for:

• Research, development and adaptation of technology to improve the quality of life and provide additional opportunities for income generation in urban slums or rural areas;

• Adaptation and transfer of an innovative technology form laboratory to field

• Capacity building of applicant in technology areas relevant to the needs in rural areas; and

Nature of Support Provided

• Support will include a scholarship grant of Rs.15,000 per month for Level I and Rs.10,000 per month for Level II for a period of two years.

• Grant for minor equipment, consumables and contingencies, Travel and overheads will also be considered if found necessary under the work plan.

• For proposals on capacity building course fee along with a grant to cover boarding and lodging will be provided.

• PhD degree in Science, Masters degree in Engineering or Technology, Architecture (for Level I)

• Masters degree in Science or Bachelors degree in Engineering or Medicine, Architecture (for Level II).

• The applicant should be a woman below the age of 50 years as on 31st December of the current calendar year.

• She should not be holding a regular position. If in employment, a certificate from the head of the organization may be furnished recommending the candidature and agreeing to release her for the duration of the scholarship.

• The project proposal should be submitted in active collaboration with an academic / R&D institution or an S&T based voluntary organization, which has a similar mandate and the necessary infrastructure in the chosen subject area. A certificate from the host institute regarding extending their commitment for infrastructure and administrative support for the project would be required.

Format for application

Duration:

The scholarship will be given for a duration of two years. In exceptional cases, on the recommendation of a review the period may be extended to a third year.

Selection Mechanism:

The Department of Science & Technology, Govt. of India will implement the scheme. A committee of independent experts will screen and recommend names for the award of the scholarships.