India to invest Rs. 2,277 Crore in scientific research and human resources

The Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has sanctioned the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) scheme, "Capacity Building and Human Resource Development," with an outlay of Rs. 2277.397 crore. This funding covers the period of the Fifteenth Finance Commission Cycle, from 2021-22 to 2025-26.

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will implement the scheme. It targets R&D institutions, national laboratories, Institutes of National Importance, Institutes of Eminence, and universities across the country. The initiative offers a platform for young researchers who want to pursue careers in universities, industry, and national R&D laboratories. It also provides a space for growth in Science, Technology & Engineering, Medical, and Mathematical Sciences (STEMM), guided by scientists and professors.

This scheme contributes to India's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the Science and Technology (S&T) sector by increasing the number of researchers per million people. Past efforts have demonstrated its ability to build capacity and expand the pool of S&T human resources.

The global innovator

India's position on the Global Innovation Index (GII) improved to 39th place in 2024, according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). The government's support for R&D has also placed India among the top three countries for scientific paper publications, based on NSF, USA data. The DSIR scheme supports thousands of scholars and scientists whose contributions have helped India's S&T achievements.

This approval marks a moment in CSIR's 84-year history. The umbrella scheme, "Capacity Building and Human Resource Development" (CBHRD), has four sub-schemes:

• Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships

• The Extramural Research Scheme, the Emeritus Scientist Scheme, and the Bhatnagar Fellowship programme

• Promotion and Recognition of Excellence through the Award Scheme

• Promoting knowledge sharing through the Travel and Symposia Grant Scheme

This initiative shows the government's commitment to creating a research-driven ecosystem. It prepares Indian science for a role in global leadership.