The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has kicked off the Science and Technology of Yoga and Meditation (SATYAM) programme recently. An initiative under this programme is a call for proposals to study the effective intervention of yoga and meditation in combatting Covid-19 and similar viruses.
Objective of the Initiative
DST is attempting to incentivize scientists, clinicians, and seasoned practitioners of yoga and meditation to submit concept notes on their proposals. These concept notes will encompass the scope, objectives, existing literature, methodology of the proposed work, expected outcome, budget requirements, and details regarding host institutions. The biodata of the principal investigator along with his or her latest publications in scientific journal databases should also be included.
The Goal behind the Initiative
The main aim of this initiative is to offer assistance to society during the trying times of the Covid-19 pandemic. This call is based on specific needs and thus, the proposed work should ideally be completed within a span of 6 to 12 months.
Three Dimensions of Covid-19
Typically, Covid-19 implicates three aspects – stress due to uncertainty and isolation, respiratory problems and effects on the immune system.
The Need for Scientific Investigation
The influence of yoga and meditation on mental health during stressful times needs to be analyzed scientifically. While there may be a casual correlation between actions and outcomes, a scientific understanding is crucial. It is expected that all participants collaborate using modern life science and bio-science tools to determine what works and what doesn’t.
A Holistic Approach to Health Issues
The intended projects should address improvements in immunity, respiratory systems, interventions to tackle respiratory disorders as well as stress, anxiety, and depression-related issues due to isolation and disruption in normal life.
History of the SATYAM Programme
Conceptualized in 2015 by the DST under its Cognitive Science Research Initiative (CSRI), SATYAM aims to promote scientific research on the impact of yoga and meditation on physical and mental health, as well as cognitive functioning in healthy individuals and patients suffering from disorders.
Themes and Eligibility
The programme seeks to investigate how yoga and meditation affect physical and mental health and wellbeing. Scientists, academicians with a research background in yoga and meditation, and practitioners actively practicing these disciplines are encouraged to apply in collaboration with esteemed academic and research institutions.
Timeline of the Project
The project is viable for a maximum duration of three years.
Cognitive Science Research Initiative
DST launched the CSRI as a highly focused programme in 2008 during the 11th Five-year plan. This initiative encourages scientific research in the interdisciplinary field of Cognitive Science for better understanding of Indian mindsets, languages, and cognitive disorders among others.
Areas of Impact and Activities Supported under CSRI
CSRI has revolutionized research in fields such as mental disorders, design of improved learning tools, software technologies, artificial intelligence devices, and social policy formulation and analysis. It supports individual R&D projects, multi-centric mega projects, post-doctoral fellowships, and backing for schools, training, workshops, conferences, and more.