India’s Research and Development Landscape Flourishes with New Fellowship and Program Calls

India’s academic and research landscape is buzzing with numerous opportunities as various Indian organizations and international bodies announce calls for applications for fellowships and programs. These initiatives span a wide range of disciplines, from science and technology to social sciences and urban studies, offering significant avenues for career development and impactful contributions.

A Plethora of Opportunities for Growth

Several prominent institutions are inviting applications for diverse roles and programs:

Department of Science and Technology (DST): The DST has opened calls for proposals under various cooperative science programs, including the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) and India-Tunisia calls. They are also seeking proposals for the WISE-SCOPE Fellowship and initiatives focused on CO2 capture and utilization in the steel sector.
BlueKraft Digital Foundation: The foundation is offering the Viksit Bharat Fellowship, a flexible grant opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to India’s growth narrative. This fellowship encourages deliverables in various formats, including books, articles, and case studies, across topics like governance, defense, economic progress, social welfare, infrastructure, climate action, technology, and cultural resurgence. Stipends range from Rs 75,000 to Rs 2,00,000 per month, depending on the fellow category (Associate, Senior, or Distinguished).
National Law School of India University (NLSIU): NLSIU has announced calls for a Project Manager for the Writing Urban India Collective Project, focusing on mentoring PhD scholars and practitioners in urban studies. Additionally, they are seeking a Development Officer to manage fundraising and program development initiatives.
Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST): JST has an open call for applications under the LOTUS Programme, specifically for Japanese institutions collaborating with Indian research institutions. This program supports graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from India for research stays in Japan.

Key Takeaways

Diverse Fields: Opportunities are available across science, technology, social sciences, law, and humanities.
Career Advancement: Fellowships and programs cater to various career stages, from early-career professionals to distinguished experts.
International Collaboration: Several calls emphasize international cooperation, fostering global research partnerships.
Focus on National Development: Many initiatives, like the Viksit Bharat Fellowship, are geared towards contributing to India’s progress and nation-building.

Eligibility and Application Insights

Eligibility criteria vary significantly across programs. For instance, the Viksit Bharat Fellowship is open to applicants worldwide aged 18 or older, with specific academic and experience requirements for different fellow categories. The NLSIU positions require relevant master’s degrees and work experience. Applicants are advised to carefully review the specific requirements for each program of interest.

These numerous calls for applications underscore a vibrant and expanding ecosystem for research, innovation, and professional development in India and through international collaborations. Interested individuals are encouraged to explore these opportunities to contribute to their respective fields and to India’s ongoing development.