The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) / Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) scheme on “Capacity Building and Human Resource Development” with an outlay of Rs 22.77 billion for the Fifteenth Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26).

Implemented by CSIR, the scheme covers R&D institutions, national laboratories, Institutes of National Importance, Institutes of Eminence, and universities nationwide. It provides a platform for young researchers aspiring to careers in academia, industry, and national R&D labs, fostering growth in Science, Technology & Engineering, Medical, and Mathematical Sciences (STEMM).

The scheme supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by increasing researchers per million population, expanding India’s high-quality S&T workforce, and contributing to the nation’s improved Global Innovation Index ranking—39th in 2024. It has already aided thousands of scholars, enhancing India’s position among the top three countries for scientific paper publications, according to NSF, USA data.

CSIR’s umbrella scheme includes four sub-programmes:

1. Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships

2. Extramural Research Scheme, Emeritus Scientist Scheme, and Bhatnagar Fellowship

3. Promotion and Recognition of Excellence through Awards

4. Knowledge sharing via Travel and Symposia Grants

This approval marks a historic milestone for CSIR in its 84-year legacy, strengthening India’s R&D capabilities for present and future generations.

News source: PIB