The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved Phase-III of the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP) for 2025-31. This initiative is a collaboration between India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Wellcome Trust (WT), UK. The programme aims to nurture top scientific talent and boost biomedical research across India. With a total budget of Rs. 1500 crore, it focuses on innovation, interdisciplinary research, and reducing regional disparities in scientific capacity.
Background and Partnership
The BRCP began in 2008-09 as a joint effort by DBT and WT through the India Alliance, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV). It was designed to offer world-class fellowships for biomedical research in India. Phase II expanded the programme in 2018-19. Phase-III continues this trajectory with enhanced funding and broader goals to strengthen India’s global standing in biomedical science.
Programme Structure and Funding
Phase-III spans from 2025-26 to 2030-31, with an extension to 2037-38 for ongoing fellowships and grants. DBT contributes Rs. 1000 crore and WT Rs. 500 crore. The programme includes Early Career and Intermediate Research Fellowships in basic, clinical, and public health sciences. It also supports Collaborative Grants for small research teams and a Research Management Programme to boost core research infrastructure.
Key Components of Phase-III
1. Early Career and Intermediate Fellowships – Target formative stages of research careers with global standards. 2. Collaborative Grants – Career Development and Catalytic Collaborative Grants support teams of 2-3 investigators with strong research records. 3. Research Management Programme – Strengthens research systems and infrastructure. 4. Mentorship and Networking – Focus on mentorship, public engagement, and encouraging national and international partnerships.
Objectives and Expected Outcomes
Phase-III aims to train over 2,000 students and postdoctoral fellows, increase women’s participation by 10-15%, and promote translational research with 25-30% of collaborative projects reaching Technology Readiness Level 4 or higher. It seeks to generate high-impact publications, patentable discoveries, and peer recognition. The programme also targets expanding research activity beyond major cities to Tier-2 and Tier-3 regions.
Strategic Importance
India’s growing investment in science and its role in the global knowledge economy require strategic support for biomedical research talent and infrastructure. BRCP Phase-III builds on earlier successes to develop world-class research capacity aligned with national priorities and international standards. It is a key driver for innovation, skills development, and scientific excellence.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of the Biomedical Research Career Programme, discuss the role of international partnerships in advancing India’s scientific research capabilities.
- Examine the challenges and opportunities in promoting translational biomedical research in India. How can government policies enhance this sector?
- Analyse the impact of targeted fellowship programmes on reducing regional disparities in scientific research across India. Discuss in the light of India’s broader science and technology policy.
- Critically discuss the importance of mentorship and collaborative grants in encouraging innovation and research excellence in emerging economies like India.
