Introduction
The Indian Ministry for Human Resource Development has unveiled the web portal for its new “Impactful Policy Research in Social Sciences (IMPRESS)” Scheme. The initiative has been introduced in an effort to support social science research within higher educational institutions and empower research to guide the formation of policies. It is a program designated to understand and provide solutions to the issues that society encounters.
About the IMPRESS Scheme
The IMPRESS scheme, which will finance 1500 research projects over a span of two years, will be put into operation at a total expense of Rs 414 crore until March 2021. The Indian Council of Social Science and Research (ICSSR) will oversee the implementation of the project.
The objectives of the scheme are manifold – from identifying and financing research proposals in social sciences with the most significant potential impact on governance and society, to ensuring the selection of projects via a transparent, competitive online procedure. Indeed, it offers an opportunity for social science researchers across various institutions in the country – including all universities central, state or private – to participate. ICSSR funded/recognised research institutes are also invited to submit research proposals on provided themes and sub-themes.
Research Areas under the IMPRESS Scheme
The IMPRESS scheme brings focus to empirical research in broad thematic areas. The list includes State and Democracy, Urban transformation; Media, Culture, and Society; Employment, Skills, and Rural transformation; Governance, Innovation, and Public Policy; Growth, Macro-trade, and Economic Policy; Agriculture and Rural Development; Health and Environment; Science and Education; Social Media and Technology; Politics, Law, and Economics.
This wide range of themes underscores the comprehensive view the IMPRESS scheme takes towards fostering an inclusive atmosphere for social science researchers to identify issues and work towards finding practical solutions.
Quick Facts About the IMPRESS Scheme
| Project Name | IMPRESS Scheme |
|---|---|
| Launched By | Ministry for Human Resource Development |
| No. of Projects Supported | 1500 |
| Duration of Support | 2 years |
| Total cost | Rs 414 crore till 2021 |
| Implementing Agency | Indian Council of Social Science and Research (ICSSR) |
Eligibility for Submission of Research Proposals
The IMPRESS scheme is open to social science researchers from any institution in the country – including all universities, whether they fall under central, state or private jurisdiction. ICSSR funded or recognised research institutes are also eligible to submit their research proposals on themes and sub-themes as provided by the scheme. The project selection process is ensured to be transparent and competitive in nature, maintaining equality of opportunity.
