The Department of Science & Technology (DST) has recently made headlines by selecting 17 distinguished scientists for the Swarna Jayanti fellowship. This coveted award recognizes exceptional scientists for their innovative research ideas and their potential to make a significant impact on Research and Development (R&D) in their respective fields.
About the Swarna Jayanti Fellowship
The Swarna Jayanti Fellowships were introduced by the Government of India during the nation’s fiftieth year of Independence in 1997. The fellowships aim to offer special assistance and support to a select group of young scientists who have demonstrated a solid track record, enabling them to carry out basic research in pioneering areas of science and technology.
Fellowship Rewards and Grants
The Swarna Jayanti fellowship comprises a monthly stipend of Rs. 25000, over and above any salary earned from the recipient’s main place of work. In addition, it provides a Research Grant of Rs. 5 lakh per annum, administered by the Department of Science and Technology, for a term of five years.
The fellowship also covers costs related to equipment, computational facilities, consumables, contingencies, as well as national and international travel. Any additional special needs associated with the research project are also factored in for coverage, based purely on merit.
Unique Features of the Fellowship
What sets the Swarna Jayanti fellowship apart is its scientist-centric approach. It is not tied to any specific institution and is highly selective in its process of choosing recipients. Additionally, there is rigorous academic monitoring throughout the course of the fellowship.
The award encourages unfettered research, offering scientists the liberty and flexibility to manage approved expenditure within their research plan. The underlying requirement is that the project should bring forth innovative research ideas and possess the potential to influence R&D within the discipline significantly.
Project Funding and the Role of SERB
The proposals put forth by the selected fellows are evaluated for funding by the Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB), following its established norms. SERB, a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology, was founded through an Act of Parliament in 2009.
These fellowships encapsulate the aspirations of the Department of Science & Technology in nurturing the scientific temper, promoting research and development, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. The Swarna Jayanti fellowship is a commendable initiative encouraging innovation, creativity and excellence in scientific research within India.
Source: PIB
