The Division sponsors research projects/studies to interested investigators/organizations under NSTMIS Scheme. The broader areas where studies could be taken up in the sponsored mode are ST investment, ST infrastructure, ST output, ST databases, ST manpower, RD productivity/efficiency etc. Some of the areas in which the research proposal/studies could be submitted are i Human Resources in ST, ii RD Infrastructure/Resources, iii ST Studies in Higher Education Sector, iv Mobility of ST Professionals, v RD and Innovation, vi IPR Management, and vii Scientometric Studies in ST. The pertinent themes/sub-areas to be addressed under these areas for submission of research proposals under the NSTMIS Scheme are listed at the NSTMIS website www.nstmis-dst.org.

National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations NIDHI is an umbrella programme conceived and developed by the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Division National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board of Department of Science Technology, Government of India, for nurturing ideas and innovations knowledge-based and technology-driven into successful startups. The programme would work in line with the national priorities and goals and its focus would be to build an innovation driven entrepreneurial ecosystem with an objective of national development through wealth and job creation. Business incubation has been globally recognized as an important tool for job creation and economic development. Innovation and Entrepreneurship Division of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India is supporting Technology Business Incubators primarily in and around academic, technical and management institutions to tap innovations and technologies for venture creation by utilizing expertise and infrastructure already available with the host institution. Recently non-academic institutions have shown interest in setting up NIDHI-TBIs. Technology based new enterprises are high risk and high growth ventures, and require an enabling environment like NIDHI-TBI to enhance the prospects of their success. There are different variants of incubators like - Technology Business Incubators NIDHI-TBIs Innovation Hubs Centers for Innovation Entrepreneurship Virtual Incubators and Seed Accelerators. Objectives of NIDBI-TBI To create jobs, wealth and business aligning with national priorities. To promote new technology/knowledge/innovation based startups. To provide a platform for speedy commercialization of technologies developed by the host institution or by any academic/technical/RD institution or by an individual. To build a vibrant startup ecosystem, by establishing a network between academia, financial institutions, industries and other institutions. To provide cost effective, value added services to startups like mentoring, legal, financial, technical, intellectual property related services.

1.0 Introduction NIDHI-Science Technology Entrepreneurs Parks and Technology Business Incubators STEP/TBIS areinstitutional linked facilities promoted by the Department of Science and Technology to nurture innovative and technological led new ventures during the initial and critical period i.e. the start-up phase.By providing a range of specialised business support services, a TBI facilitates the initial journey of a start up and enables new ventures to survive and succeed in the market place. Around 90TBIs have been promoted by the NSTEDB of DST. TBIs are primarily hosted at the institutions of higher educationacross the country including both publicly and privately funded Universities and institutions e.g. IITs, IIMs, NITs, NID, PSG,Manipal Univ, VIT, Amrita Univ. etc . 2.0 The Need While the STEP/TBIare able to support the “Space, Services and Knowledge” requirements of startups but, wide gap exists in financial support required by a technology driven start up in its initial phase which are not being addressed properly.The basic idea of seed support is providing financial assistance to potential startups with promising ideas, innovations and technologies. This would enable some of these incubatee startups with innovative ideas/technologies to graduate to a level where they will be able to raise investments from angel/Venture capitalist or they will reach a position to seek loans from commercial banks /financial institutions . Thus the proposed seed support disbursed by an incubator to an incubatee is positioned to act as a bridge between development and commercialization of innovative technologies/products/services in a relatively hassle free manner . 3.0 Objective The sole objective of the NIDHI-Seed Support System NIDHI-SSS is to ensure timely availability of the seed support tothe deserving incubatee startups within an incubator , thereby enabling them to take their venture to next level and facilitate towards their success in the market place. The scheme also enables the STEP/TBI to widen their pipeline of startups and also share the success of their startups which would also result in ensuring their long term operational sustainability. a Eligibility for TBI to apply for NIDHI-SSS • A fully Operational STEP/TBIwith at least 5 start ups requiring seed support is eligible to apply to DST for seed support. Seed support is normally given to a DST funded STEP/TBIs, but other TBIs having not for profit legal status and hosted at public institutions would also be considered on a case to case basis. bEligibility Conditions for Incubatee Start Ups for seed support Incubatee should be a registered company in India with minimum of three months ofresidency at the STEP/TBIs. Incubatee has to be an Indian start-up.This support is not meant for Indian Subsidiaries of MNCs/foreign companies.Persons holding Overseas Citizens of India OCI, Persons of Indian Origin PIO would be considered as Indian citizens for the purpose of this scheme. The share holding by Indian promoters in the incubate start up should be at least 51.

NSTEDB proposes to encourage the existing TBIs in its network to undertake Accelerator both sectoral and sector-agnostic, regional and national, which will strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem as well as deliver immense value to other Incubation Programs. Objectives of NIDHI-Accelerators ? To fast track the growth of potential start ups through rigorous mentoring and networking support in a short span through existing TBIs To attract subject matter experts, mentors, and angel investors get associated with TBIs through the structured accelerator programs To build a vibrant startup ecosystem, by establishing a network between academia, financial institutions, industries and other institutions. To act as a hub for several incubators in the region, so that high-potential startups can be fast-tracked for increased exposure and validation Accelerators should employ a “fail fast” mentality ideas or prototypes that are not getting traction should be abandoned or modified quickly, allowing founders to redeploy resources to other projects or even new companies at a rapid pace.

Business incubation has been globally recognized as an important tool for economic development and job creation. National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board NSTEDB of Department of Science and Technology DST has been supporting the technology based stratups through its flagship programme of “Technology Business Incubator”. Technology Business Incubators have been supported primarily in and around academic and technical institutions to tap potential technology ideas and innovations for venture creation by effectively utilizing expertise and existing infrastructure already available with the host institution. Technology based new enterprises are high risk and high growth ventures, and they require an enabling environment like NIDHI-Centre of Excellence NIDHI-COEto enhance the prospects of their success. To further augment and scale upexisting incubation activities in TBIs, the Department would provide an enhanced support Rs.50 crore in 5 years. The support would include a design/product/prototype development Validation Centres along with the Patent Facilitation centres, state-of-the-art technology based TBI facilities to accommodate minimum 100 startups and an accelerator for 10 high potential startups. The support would encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, successful business development, and community revitalization, and ensure development of local economy that generates wealth and shares prosperity.

Basic and applied RD in CPS topics

Fundamental and applied research in Data Science, big data, Analytics and predictive technologies

Basic and applied research in Sensors, actuators, operational systems development and IoT

Basic and applied research in cyber security and related topics

Development of analytics tools, algorithms for epidemiology data, disease burden in Indian context

RD, fusion of technology with Indian Heritage, tool development, prototypes development

Quantum Information Science Technology QuST- a networked based cluster programme- Directed Research

The Department of Science and Technology DST, Ministry of Science Technology. Government of India, New Delhi and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science JSPS conduct the India-Japan Cooperative Science Programme IJCSP to promote bilateral scientific collaboration between Indian and Japanese scientists. Applications are invited from eligible Indian researchers /scientists to submit proposals for Joint Research Projects and Joint Workshops/Seminars under IJCSP. The support is available under the scientific areas - i Fundamental Sciences Physical and Chemical Systems Condensed Matter Physics, Molecules and Molecular Assembly Science, Interface Science and Catalysis ii Materials and System Engineering Man-made Systems Advanced Materials and Nanotechnologies This keyword includes areas of metal ceramics, polymer science engineering and materials processes, Engineering Sciences This keyword includes areas of manufacturing science and engineering and synthesis analysis/optimization simulation of engineering processes and systems iii Natural Systems Life Sciences and Bioengineering Molecular and Chemical Biosciences, Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Medical Biosciences, Cognitive Science iv Astronomy, Space, Earth System and Sciences Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Space Planetary Science Geosciences Marine, Meteorology, Geology, Paleontology, Geophysics and Geochemistry for Global Issues Global warming and Natural Resource v Mathematics and Computational Science Mathematical Science, Computational Science and Engineering, Big Data analytics, Machine Learning

Department of Science and Technology DST and the Academy of Finland have decided to launch a call for application to support mobility of researchers between the two countries in fields of natural sciences and engineering.The aim of this call is to support long-term and systematic research collaboration with a view to promoting the mobility of researchers between India and Finland. The Call is open to scientists, engineers or faculty members regularly employed in universities and research institutions / centres including hospitals in India or Finland. Indian researchers in fields of natural sciences and engineering can apply for DST funding to visit Finland. The Indian applicant must have a doctoral degree and a regular position in university / research institute or a research center in India. The application must include invitation by the Finnish host and research plan. A visit may be applied for 2 weeks to 3 months. The visit must be realized during March – December 2019. DST will forward the shortlisted applications to the Academy of Finland for final selection and award of mobility grant. DST will provide round-trip economy-class airfare to the relevant entry city of the Finland as well as medical insurance. The Academy of Finland contributes to the costs of the visit with a grant covering accommodation and living costs in Finland. Max. 10 Indian researchers may be funded in 2019. The Indian researcher seeking funding for travel grant can download the application format from websites www.dst.gov.in / www.onlinedst.gov.in and should submit completed application form and all relevant information. Application must be submitted to DST through the e-application system provided at www.onlinedst.gov.in. They are also requested to send one hard copy to DST by 20th October 2018 through proper channel. Please note that the Invitation from Finnish host scientist, CV of the applicant and joint research plan are mandatory documents to be submitted alongwith the application.

The basic aim of the programme is to strengthen the collaboration between Indian and German research groups, which are working jointly on a particular scientific project. The programme ’Project-based Personnel Exchange’ envisages, in this connection, financial support for operational mobility only. Particular emphasis is thereby accorded to academic training and specialization of young researchers. Concrete objectives have to be mentioned in the application project description including the number and academic credentials of the researchers to be supported. Research collaborations entered into with the intention of initiating major projects, such as the preparation of joint applications meant for submission to any other funding organisation, are highly preferred.

Department of Science Technology DST, Government of India and Russian Science Foundation RSFhave concluded a Programme of Cooperation POC for funding of Joint Research Proposals in India and Russia in the areas of Basic Science. Under this POC, each project will receive annual funding of up to equivalent of US 100,000 in respective national currencies. DST and RSF invite active Indian and Russian scientists / researchers to submit proposals for Joint Research Project in the following areas of basic sciences under DST-RSF cooperation Mathematics, Computer and Systems Science Physics and Space Science Chemistry and Material Science Biology and Life Science Basic Research for Medicine Agricultural Science Earth Science and Engineering. • Project on each side to be implemented by a project team consisting of at least 4 members, up to 10 members and should consist of 50 of young researchers below 39. • Project coordinators on both sides must have published at least 10 research articles in SCI indexed journals in last 5 years. • It is expected that each supported project would result in to at least 5 research publications in SCI indexed journals. • The scientists who are in any way involved in the implementation of two or more projects including an area of the organisation’s integrated research programme that were previously supported by the DST International Group or RSF and that are not expected to be completed by 31 December 2018 are not eligible to be a member of the research team.

The BRICS STI Framework Programme aims to support excellent research on priority areas which can best be addressed by a multinational approach. The initiative should facilitate cooperation among the researchers and institutions in the consortia which consist of partners from at least three of the BRICS countries

The EU-India ST Agreement Framework aims to support excellent research in priority areas which can best be addressed by a multinational approach. The initiative facilitates cooperation among the researchers and institutions in India and Europe.India EU Water Call 2017-18 seek Joint Proposals from Indian and European Researcher to address Water related challenges. This action should develop new and/or adapt the most suitable existing innovative and Affordable solutions for Indian conditions, both in urban and rural areas, addressing one or more of the following broad challenges i Drinking water purification with a focus on emerging pollutants ii Waste water treatment, with scope for resource/energy recovery, reuse, recycle and rainwater harvesting, including bioremediation technologies iii Real time monitoring and control systems in distribution and treatment systems. This action should develop new and/or adapt the most suitable existing innovative and Affordable solutions for Indian conditions, both in urban and rural areas, addressing one or more of the following broad challenges i Drinking water purification with a focus on emerging pollutants ii Waste water treatment, with scope for resource/energy recovery, reuse, recycle and rainwater harvesting, including bioremediation technologies iii Real time monitoring and control systems in distribution and treatment systems.

The Department of Science Technology DST had initiated a highly focused programme quotCognitive Science Research Initiative CSRIquot in 2008 during 11th Five year plan. The Cognitive Science Research Initiative facilitates a platform to scientific community to work for better solution of challenges related with cognitive disorders and social issues through various psychological tools batteries, early diagnosis better therapies, intervention technologies and rehabilitation programmes. OBJECTIVE Cognitive Science Research Initiative is aimed to revolutionize research in various fields, such as • Nature and origins of mental disorders, of physiological, social and neuro-chemical origins. • Design of better learning tools and educational paradigms. • Design of better software technologies and artificial intelligence devices. • Streamlining of social policy formulation and analysis. Thrust Areas Cognitive science has wide horizons which covers different aspects of cognition. DST has identified specific thrust areas in Cognitive Science which include Foundations of Cognition Language and Cognition Computational Intelligence Cognitive Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience etc. Support Available under CSRI 1. Individual RD Projects Grant is available for RD projects in any thrust areas identified. Support will be provided for Equipments, Manpower and other research grant. 2. Multi-centric Mega Projects Multi-centric projects are encouraged to provide better solution of issues related with social relevance, better understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and their therapeutics. 3. Post Doctoral FellowshipTwo years 'Post Doctoral Fellowship' Programme is aimed to develop human resource in Cognitive Sciences. The Scheme provides Opportunities to Young Scientists below 40 years for pursuing innovative research in frontier areas of Cognitive Science. 4. Support for Schools, Training, Workshops, Conferences etc The CSRI programme extends partial support for organizing conference/seminar/symposia/training programmes/workshops/schools on a selective basis. The support is provided to Academic or Research Institutions, Universities and other Professional bodies to encourage young researchers and keep scientific community abreast of the latest developments in various areas of Cognitive Science.

Department of Science and Technology DST, in 2015, conceptualized a new research program- ‘Science and Technology of Yoga and Meditation’ SATYAM- under its Cognitive Science Research Initiative CSRI. As Yoga and Meditation are interdisciplinary endeavors that interface with Neuroscience, Medicine, Psychology, Philosophy, and so on, therefore an interdisciplinary approach is needed to converge different diverse disciplines as well as approaches methods in the study of yoga and meditation. Thus comprehensive research on yoga and meditation is expected to address various challenges confronting physical and mental health. This new programme is aimed to foster scientific research on the effects of yoga and meditation on physical mental health and on cognitive functioning in healthy people as well as in patients with disorders. Themes Basic themes being covered under SATYAM include, among others, 1 investigations on the effect of Yoga and Meditation on physical and mental health and well being, and 2 investigations on the effect of Yoga and Meditation on the body, brain, and mind in terms of basic processes and mechanisms. Who can apply Scientists/academicians with research background in ‘Yoga and Meditation’ and having regular position are invited to participate in this initiative. Practitioners actively involved in yoga and meditation practices are also encouraged to apply in collaboration with academic and research institutions of repute. Interested researchers are required to submit research proposals in their area of expertise along with Endorsement Certificate from the Head of the Institution and detailed bio-data of PI and Co-PIs. The project proposal format is available on the DST website.

Women Scientist Scheme-B WOS-B focuses on projects related to Science Technology ST interventions for societal benefit. Such project proposal should address a well-identified societal challenge and deliver possible solutions by way of development of viable technology/technique and/or lab-to-land technology transfer, its adaptation and scaling up. Women scientists who wish to apply under this scheme are required to develop their own project/proposals for scientific and technological solutions to address issues preferably at enhance quality-of-life the grassroots level. The proposal must clearly bring out the societal benefit to be accrued through well conceived plan for development of technology/technique and/or adaptation/ customization. The candidate should have adequate ST skills and be adept at techniques to deliver the proposed outcome. Projects which have the potential for sustainable income generation, lead to appreciable reduction in drudgery and enhancement of quality-of-life besides capacity building of women at the grassroots level are encouraged.

The Department of Science Technology DST had initiated a highly focused programme "Cognitive Science Research Initiative CSRI" in 2008 during 11th Five year plan. The Cognitive Science Research Initiative facilitates a platform to scientific community to work for better solution of challenges related with cognitive disorders and social issues through various psychological tools batteries, early diagnosis better therapies, intervention technologies and rehabilitation programmes. Post Doctoral FellowshipTwo years 'Post Doctoral Fellowship' Programme is aimed to develop human resource in Cognitive Sciences. The Scheme provides Opportunities to Young Scientists below 40 years for pursuing innovative research in frontier areas of Cognitive Science.

This Programme aims to improve access to state-of-the-art facilities for Indian scientific community, especially from the academic sector. Because of their scale, technical complexity and huge requirement of funds, such projects are funded jointly and also implemented through multi-institutional efforts.

Initiatives to help achieve gender equity, as our commitments under the national priority, Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, and leveraged by Community Radio, are being re-oriented to raise the level of hand holding by the Department for longer duration than it is at present so that the infrastructure, facilities and manpower engaged in this noble endeavour could be utilized to its fullest.

The objectives of the National Children‘s Science Congress is to make a forum available to children in the age group 10-17 years, both from formal school system and from out of school, to exhibit their creativity and innovativeness, more particularly to solve a societal problem experienced locally using methods of science. The NCSC prompts to think of some significant societal problem, ponder over its causes and subsequently try and solve the same using the scientific methods. This involves close and keen observation, raising pertinent questions, building models, predicting solutions on the basis of a model, trying out various possible alternatives and arriving at an optimum solution using experimentation, field work, research and innovative ideas.

TO PROMOTE INNOVATION AMONGST THE CITIZENS IN AGE GROUP 18

OUTREACH INCLUDING SCIENCE COMMUNICATION MEDIA FILMS ETC

To inspire and nurture the Eco Intelligent Youth Young Change Makers, the ‘Mission Eco NEXT’ initiatives focus upon promoting real-time responsiveness for building regenerative ecological futures which are leveraged by eco media, eco design eco innovation for promoting integrated efforts for conservation of natural resources, specifically aimed at developing models in public guidance systems based on science communication, like location specific innovative initiatives for actionable learning and building field capacity for adopting scientific best practices in knowledge critical domains. Science Technology Communication Trainings and support are provided in project mode for knowledge led motivation and capacity building of youth for leadership and improvement of quality of life of specific target groups based on scientific approaches of ‘Being- on- their -Own’ and ‘Collective response’ to challenges and location specific problems. Details http//www.dst.gov.in/sites/default/files/Mission20Eco20NEXT.pdf.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics STEM demonstrations comprising of Science fairs melas, exhibitions, mobile science exhibitions, lecture-demonstrations, interactive media, visits to ST establishments, hands-on-STEM activities, and so on. These events, whether stationary or mobile, serve to utilize the expertise of resource persons trained/being trained by NCSTC in various aspects on activities. Different kinds of demonstration on a variety of themes on STEM Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, environmental themes, health, science behind miracles, vermicomposting Support to capacity building module aiming at scientific awareness and exposure on composting, vermin-composting, micro-organism, etc.. includes hands – on activities. Science in toys including areas like economic zoology, economic botany, ethno-botany, ethno- zoology, etc. Puppetry – watch a show, script a dialogue eg. 10 exchanges in 10 minutes of Galileo talks to Class 9 students, Student activity stalls - Solve a puzzle, mathematical games/activities, ask a good question, 10 minute design/redesign, spot the odd one, draw a future, quizzes, painting, etc. Skits and Street plays, eg. Nukkad natak, on proposed themes as in the stalls They should expose a large number of people to i ST issues, ii ST in daily life, iii ST at cutting edge. Scientific Career Options The serve to expose students to the scientific concepts at the cutting edge, India's capabilities, their career choices, and motivate students to take up a career in science. Industrial Visits/ visits to ST establishments, etc Details http//www.dst.gov.in/sites/default/files/STEMDemonstration.pdf

ST COMMUNICATION THROUGH FOLK MEDIA, LOW COST-NO COST SCIENCE TEACHING AIDS EXPLAINING SCIENCE BEHIND MIRACLES ST based Communication to reach the unreachable, through Science Communication training demonstrations, Low cost-no cost teaching aids, and Folk Media Puppetry, street play, nukkad natak, folk songs, dances, etc., and to address societal misconceptions like blind beliefs, myths, miracles, and other controversies related to ST issues, etc. Detailshttp//www.dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/st-and-socio-economic-development/national-council-science-technology-communication-ncstc

Every year 28 February is celebrated as the National Science Day NSD. The programme was initiated to trigger science popularization activities throughout the country. NCSTC acts as a nodal agency to support and coordinate celebration of NSD by giving grants to State ST Councils Departments for organization of lectures, quizzes, open houses, etc. Details http//www.dst.gov.in/scientific-programmes/st-and-socio-economic-development/national-council-science-technology-communication-ncstc

MISSION ENLIGHTEN- Science Media Communication Research In order to strengthen Science Media Communication, NCSTC aims to innovate, augment, synergize and harness research in these domains in keeping with emerging transdisciplinary trends especially transdisciplinary imaging for Sci-media, Sci-com research in areas like Environmental Health Sciences, Public Health, Medicine Sciences, Food, Biosciences, Agricultural Sciences, Energy, ST Information Sciences, Science Fiction, Computational Media, Animation, Gamification for Scientific Literacy Temper among others. Support shall be considered for initiatives focussed on innovative Sci-Media Sci-Com research, including research on future of science literature, media magazines, research modules for existing/new popular science magazines/publication/ translations and pilot runs of the research-enriched versions so as to assess the impact, especially on youth, and defining the innovative models for replication/or scale up. The stress is on involving lead institutions so that path-breaking innovative concepts researches are nurtured and shared especially for young practitioners in science media communication and achieving enrichment of public engagement. The successful models, including establishment of Science Media Labs, may be then considered for upgradation as multi modular Research Hubs. Pl see details at http//www.dst.gov.in/sites/default/files/Mission-Enlighten.pdf

The Programme aims at developing methods, techniques, and solutions for operationalising the concept of local level planning using Geospatial Technologies. Current Application priorities cover Landslides and Coastal Hazard Mitigation.

Geospatial Chair Professors, Geodesy, GRACE Data For Water Management BRICS UNGGIM Capacity Building Training Programme NRDMS evolution

RD Project Proposals are hereby invited by the NRDMS-NSDI Division of Department of Science Technology DST, Govt. of India for developing and demonstrating utility of concepts of Spatial Data Infrastructures SDIs in Urban Governance Applications. In particular, SDI concepts like geospatial metadata, geospatial data and process standards decision support systems and application of emerging Geo-Information Communication Technologies in Urban Governance using web-based platforms etc. are proposed to be explored and adapted to real-life Urban Governance context

NSDI,State SDI, and RD Applications aim at setting up a data sharing and utilisation mechanism at the Central Ministries and State Government levels to support multi-level planning.

Department of Science and Technology DST has recognized the importance of evidence-driven research and analysis in underpinning the effective achievement of the objectives of Science, Technology Innovation Policy 2013 and established DST-Centers for Policy Research CPRs in various academic institutions across the country. These centers are engaged in targeted research in number of key areas relevant to the country, train young scholars in STI policy research, and contribute towards providing inputs to DST. As the country is lagging behind in terms of critical mass and proper structure of policy research institutions, Policy Research Cell of DST had announced STI Policy Fellowship Programme in 2016 with the broad objective of enhancing human resources that can engage with and contribute to the STI policy domain and strengthen the knowledge base, think tank, and evidence based policy making. The 3rd Call for STI Policy Fellowship is announced to provide an opportunity to develop the skills for young scientists and engineers who are interested in engagement with the STI policy domain and/or as STI policy researchers. This programme aims to attract and encourage top-quality researchers as POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW to work on the issues pertaining to STI policy and contribute their knowledge and analytical skills in the policy realm.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Botany/ Zoology/ Agriculture/ Veterinary/ Medical/ Pharmacy/ and all other areas of life sciences from University/ Institute Departments.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Chemistry/ Chemical Sciences from University/ Institute Departments.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals from Post Graduate Colleges in Basic Sciences/ Agriculture/ Engineering/ Veterinary/ Medical/ Pharmacy.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Engineering and Technology from University/ Institute Departments.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Earth Sciences/ Environmental Sciences/ Geological Sciences/ Geographical Sciences from University/ Institute Departments.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Mathematics and Statistics from University/ Institute Departments.

Invitation for DST FIST Proposals in the area of Physics/ Astrophysics/ and all areas of Physical Sciences from University/ Institute Departments.

Technology interventions for Addressing Societal Needs TIASN This scheme is aimed at development of innovative technologies which are related to societal development. It focuses attention on specific and need based S T interventions in farm and non-farm sectors for improvement of economically weaker sections, small and marginal farmers, rural artisans, landless labourers and urban population in unorganized sectors. Objectives To catalyze research, development, design, adaptation and application of innovative ST solutions for rural applications by supporting time bound development efforts with well defined milestones. To motive scientists and technologists for applying their expertise to find novel solutions for problems in the rural as well as urban areas having societal relevance. To take up all such activities which are conducive to the attainment of the above objectives.. Priority Areas The following priority areas have been identified Land, water and cover management through scientific and technological inputs for value addition and income generation. Water Management Owning sustaining of water in rural areas. Agriculture, Animal husbandry and Aquaculture Effective use of inputs, integrated farming system, post harvest technology, including post harvest processing. Engineering Services Design, development and upgradation of farms and non farm tools and machinery cost effective energy appliances Construction technologies using local resources and material for construction. Rural industries R D projects in the area of rural process industries. Establishment of Rural Technology Parks as technology resource centres for technology back-up/ support system in both farm and non –farm sector.

Long Term Core Support - Technological Advancement for Rural Areas TARA. For details about the Scheme, please copy and paste the following link on your web browser http//dst.gov.in/long-term-core-support-technological-advancement-rural-areas-tara

The Department of Science and Technology DST has a focused initiative on Science and Technology ST interventions for the benefit of elderly and also the differently-abled Divyanjan persons in the country titled- Technology Interventions for Disabled and Elderly TIDE. In addition to improving the quality-of-life of target population with appropriate and/or innovative scientific technological interventions, TIDE also aim at giving them autonomy independence through holistic development by creating requisite enabling environment for their empowerment. Proposals on Research and Development for technological solutions with multidisciplinary approach to improve the quality of life of Elderly population and Divyanjan and in making them self sufficient will be considered for financial assistance under this programme.

Tribal Sub Plan Technological Interventions for Tribal Empowerment TITE TITE - the grant-in-aid scheme of the department under Tribal Sub Plan aims at improving living conditions and empowerment of scheduled tribes based on sustainable science and technology S T activities/application. Objectives S T application/interventions are expected on the following by developing action research project 1 To promote research, development adaptation of S T for improving quality of life of tribal groups. 2 Initiation of location specific S T based program in major socio-economic sectors. 3 To preserve traditional artisan skills, building on local innovation local knowledge systems in designing local resource management strategies through participatory research approach. 4 To explore promote alternative livelihood potential wherever the present occupation is dwindling on innovative community-based approaches and technological options to enhance field-level impact. 5 To improve existing equipment and machinery and introduction of new techniques/systems and complete technology package. 6 Broadening the impact of above S T based activities by promoting replication and scaling up of successful approaches leading towards empowerment and technical capacity building of tribal populations. Priority Areas • Land use, ecology, environment and energy by promoting S T based activities which generate sustainable increases in production and productivity of natural resources including water resource management and spring recharge micro-level Integrated watershed management • Forests – Agriculture Interface and Indigenous people Development, demonstration and extension of viable replicable models of S T application that ensures household level food security and improves livelihood opportunities • Effective and sustainable utilization of available natural resources including MFP and value addition to products based on traditional skills innovative technologies and quality products, integration in the production chain • Development opportunities for local communities around protected areas through technology focused bio-tourism and conservation for improved livelihoods • Application of S T for manpower development to generate alternate sources of income through sustainable cultivation systems/diversified agriculture and the establishment of non-farm enterprises at the micro and small scale level • Facilitation of technology mission mode projects by complementary activities • Sensitizing voluntary agencies, scientists of laboratories and related agencies to S T approach for tribal development through short-term brain-storming workshops and awareness generation to possible technology options and • Other activities, which would complement these objectives, like workshops, seminars, publications, etc.

Social Equity principles demand special attention and careful intervention to facilitate scheduled caste community in their developmental aspirations programmes focused on enabling the community need to be developed into both empathy and sensitivity backed up by the supply of adequate resources. Scheduled Castes Sub Plan is a scheme to empower SC population through the input of Science and Technology. Objectives To promote research, development and adaptation of technology for improving the quality of life of the economically weaker sections of scheduled castes in urban/rural areas To encourage scientists technologists to apply their knowledge and expertise to solve the problems of economically weaker scheduled caste communities, especially in rural areas. To replicate successful technology models relevant to SC population Priority Areas ST intervention for sustainable development and income generation amongst scheduled caste artisans/farmers ST intervention for enhancing efficiency of artisans engaged in traditional occupations Optimizing the design of commonly used equipment, machinery, rural transport vehicles to increase income, reduce drudgery and improve general health and well being, simultaneously sharpening their competence for undertaking repairs and maintenance. Facilitating setting up of technology driven micro-enterprises in rural areas. Sensitizing voluntary agencies, scientists of laboratories sand related agencies to S T approach for development of scheduled castes through short-term brain-storming workshops and awareness generation to possible technology options and Other activities, which would complement these objectives, like workshops, seminars, publications, etc. Note • Targeted beneficiaries should be SC population minimum 40-50. • List of selected beneficiaries along-with their address should be provided. • Detail about land holding of scheduled caste beneficiaries in case of agriculture related projects.

Science and Technology for Women ST for Women Objectives 1 To promote research, development and adaptation of technology to improve the quality of life, workings conditions for women. 2 To provide newer opportunities for gainful employment of women especially in rural areas and empower them through inputs of S T. 3 To reduce drudgery of women through application of Science and Technology. 4 To look into women health and nutrition through the application of S T Priority Areas The following priority areas have been identified under the scheme with major beneficiaries being women • Women Technology Park WTP, that are envisaged to act as a resource centre where all necessary support is made available to women. • Specific ST application programmes to address the problems of women in different agro climatic regions such as hill, coastal and arid. • RD on post-harvest technology and agricultural implements used by women to improve productivity and reduce drudgery • Improved practices for occupational health and enhanced production in technology areas where women form a majority of the stake holders sericulture, aquaculture, etc • Research, development and demonstration program to minimize occupational hazards of women in domestic, agricultural and organized and non-organized industries • Design, fabrication and improvement of equipment, accessories, tools and machineries used by women in different occupations in formal and non-formal sectors • Up-gradation of traditional skills for utilization of available local resources and providing means for women to enter into the organized sector or for starting entrepreneurial production or service units • Women's Health issues - Nutrition, non communicable diseases, prevention strategies for communicable diseases and • Selective studies on facilities available for women, health and nutritional status of women, employment/livelihood opportunities available for women, technologies existing and suitable for adoption. • All India coordinated projects on rural technologies related to above. • Collaborated projects initiated by the department with other laboratories Universities and Ministries.

Encouraging young thinkers towards social development through Science Technology To encourage young scientists and technologists towards providing technology based/led solutions for societal challenges, Department of Science and Technology DST launched Scheme for Young Scientists and Technologists SYST in the year 1991. Innovative technological ideas in the form of proposal from young passionate researchers are thus invited under SYST, encompassing scientific interventions aimed at addressing social challenges. Eligibility 1. The applicant should possess at least Master’s degree in any Science and Technology stream. Those having PhD will be given preference. 2. The candidate should be less than 35 years of age on the last date of submission of the application to DST. However, age relaxation of 5 years would be given to Women and Differently-abled Divyangjan applicants and those belonging to SC/ST/OBC category. 3. The applicant not in regular position should align himself or herself with an Academic Institution of repute, ST based agencies including reputed Voluntary Organization with minimum 5 years in existence for implementation of ST based projects. These organizations must agree to facilitate smooth execution of the project and provide necessary infrastructure/ facilities for this purpose.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Government of India had instituted a scheme titled “SwarnaJayanti Fellowships Scheme” to commemorate India’s fiftieth year of Independence. Under this scheme a selected number of young scientists, with excellent track record, are provided special assistance and support to enable them to pursue research in frontier areas of science and technology. The fellowship is scientist specific and not institution specific. Scientists selected for the award will be allowed to pursue unfettered research with a freedom and flexibility in terms of expenditure as approved in the research plan. The project to be submitted along with the application should, therefore, contain innovative research idea and it should have a potential of making impact on RD in the discipline. The duration of the fellowship along with the project will be for a period not exceeding five years. The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals having a regular position in a recognized Indian academic/ research organization. The applicant should possess Ph.D in Science/ Engineering/ Medicine and should not be drawing Fellowship from any other Scheme of GOI.

Waste Management Technologies program is aligned to the “Swachh Bharat Mission” or “Clean India Mission” of the Government. DST initiated a special program on Waste Management Technologies WMT in October 2015, and constituted a high level Expert Advisory Committee EAC-WMT. Waste Management encompass a variety of interventions in the generation, prevention, characterization, monitoring, treatment, handling, reuse and ultimate residual disposal of solid wastes. Main Objectives of the program includes Take stock of technological development, assess, analyse and look for material recycling systems with low environment loading and improve upon them or find better alternatives Develop waste management technologies that can be adopted in small medium scale enterprises in order to improve their productivity and global competitiveness and Establish techno-economic feasibility of proposed methodologies/ technologies. The program aims to promote the development of suitable technologies with potential to ameliorate the environmental load from the huge amount of residuals generated by industrial development and consumption lifestyle. The focus is mainly on four areas a Electronic Waste, b Hospital Waste, c Plastic Waste, and d Solid Waste from Mining, Metallurgical Ceramic Industries. Technology Development Projects will be undertaken by RD agencies, in association with industry, to develop pre-competitive technologies/ techniques/ processes. The selection of projects is based on the criteria of novelty scientific uniqueness, thereby DST aims to promote innovative technologies that can have commercial potential.

The Government has set a growth target for the manufacturing sector from 16 of GDP to reach 25 of GDP by 2025. The National Manufacturing Policy and the emphasis on “Make in India” is a powerful strategy for economic development. In accordance with this objective, DST has initiated this program for developing Advanced Manufacturing Technologies in October 2015, and a high level Expert Advisory Committee EAC-AMT was set up, chaired by Prof. Rudra Pratap, Center for Nano Science Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. Five thrust areas were selected for developing novel manufacturing technologies a Nano materials surfaces, b Robotics automation c Precision manufacturing d Manufacturing process of Pharmaceuticals Bio manufacturing e Advanced forming near net shaped processing. The objectives of the program are to Encourage RD labs to move some of their activities from “discovery research” towards “industrially relevant RD” and to Encourage inter-disciplinary, multi-institutional research programs for innovation.

The Department of Science Technology DST through its Device Development Programme has been promoting and supporting activities related to indigenous development of selected devices in the country. During recent past, DST has supported the development of instruments/devices etc. at various RD institutions/universities. This has resulted in development of these instruments and subsequent transfer of know-how to various production agencies for their commercial production. IDENTIFIED AREAS Following areas have been identified and project proposals may be submitted for development of device in the following areas - • Measuring/ Monitoring devices/instruments - ?Low cost IR spectrophotometers NIR MIR ?Low cost Raman spectrophotometers. ?Low cost GC, HPLC instruments. ?Micro-fluidic platforms for various applications. ?Vibration Measuring/Monitoring Instruments ?Straightness Measuring Instruments ?Teaching Aid Instruments ?Quality Measuring Instruments ?Sensor based devices • Food adulteration detection devices - ?Affordable devices to check for adulteration in food, including grains, spices and raw processed food. ? Devices for detection of hazardous elements in food like lead, mercury, arsenic etc. • Plants diseases detection devices. ?Low cost, fast and compact device for the detection of disease in plants. ?Spectroscopic systems for quantification of disease level in plants. • Environmental monitoring devices/ Early warning Systems - ?Low cost kit for automobile exhaust emission measurement. ?Instrument for pollution measuring and monitoring systems •IoT enabled industrial systems - ?IOT enabled industrial systems for various applications • Disaster management in sewages and Man-holes ? Novel systems for detection and monitoring of hazardous gases like Methane and Hydrogen Sulphide in sewage and man-holes. • Textile Instrumentation ? Instruments for texture evaluation and inspection of textile surface profile. ? Multi-axial testing systems for woven, knitted, nonwoven textile and composite laminated structures. ? Axial impact testing of linear textile elements like fibers, yarns and ropes.

Science and Heritage Research Initiative SHRI, a new programme on Heritage Research, plans to engage experts from diverse fields for data capture and analysis, to form new collaborations, and provide viable technology to address cultural heritage related issues. Aims and Objectives SHRI has been envisaged to - 1. Build capacity in human resources and encourage new researchers to work in these areas. 2. Promote scientific RD activities for conservation of Heritage objects which may include material deterioration process, preservation techniques, intervention technologies, new materials, processes for restoration and diagnostic technologies. 3. Safeguard the use, representations, expressions, knowledge and techniques, communities, groups and in some cases, individuals, recognised as an integral part of our cultural heritage. 4. To explore new approaches, state-of-art technology to preserve the heritage and art works of former generations, which witnessed the evolution and growth of human civilization. 5. Promote application of advanced knowledge of archaeometric science in a range of fields. 6. Promote RD activities and technological advancement in Tribal Arts for value addition. The envisaged thrust areas are - • Study of Heritage Materials/Metals. • Remote sensing Techniques for Detection of Archaeological Residues. • In situ non-invasive imaging of sub-surface microstructure of object, sustainable radiography for heritage materials, etc. • Heritage Textiles – New technologies in yarn treatment, weaving, printing, Eco friendly dyes, Cement Clothing etc. • Salts and synthetic coatings for wall paintings for example, the application of surface science to artists' acrylic emulsion paint films • Health monitoring of ancient artefacts. • Tribal Arts/Heritage • New Materials development • Conservation Technologies • Development of Tools/process for conservation • Any other area related to Heritage other than mentioned above

Recognizing the profound influence of RD on the prospects and opportunities for the growth of the Indian Drug Industry, Department of Science and Technology DST, Government of India mounted the programme on drug development during 1994-95 for promoting collaborative RD in drugs and pharmaceuticals sector with the following specific objectives • To synergise the strengths of publicly funded RD institutions and Indian Pharmaceutical Industry. • To create an enabling infrastructure, mechanisms and linkages to facilitate new drug development. • To stimulate skill development of human resources in RD for drugs and pharmaceuticals and • To enhance the nation’s self-reliance in drugs and pharmaceuticals especially in areas critical to national health requirements.

Technology Development Program

This call is aimed at delivering Science and Technology interventions to answer various location specific challenges in the different States of the Country which will ensure integration of Science and Technology for overall socio-economic development with special emphasis on Location Specific Research Technology Development, Adaptation and demonstration Transfer, Science and Technology studies/surveys and information of exchange experience sharing on specific Science and Technology programmes throughout the Country. The focus is on application research and field level interventions to demonstrate technical, social, environmental and eventually economic sustainable solutions for various location specific challenges. The demand for intervention need to be evident and established clearly.

The National Mission for Electric Mobility NMEM Plan was launched in April 2015, and a Consumer Incentives Scheme” for Electric Hybrid Electric Vehicles was published in the Gazette of India. It is expected to catalyse the development of the market and by 2020 to reach an annual sales 6-7 million vehicles. This may lead to savings of 9500 Million Litres of crude oil or Rs. 62000 Cr. Savings by 2020. The DST has joined hands with the Department of Heavy Industry DHI to create a Technology Platform for Electric Mobility TPEM, that will be funded primarily by the DHI, and the program management will be undertaken completely by DST. The main objectives of the program are to develop technologies products that specifically address India needs to develop a global competitive edge in select technologies of Electric Mobility and to strengthen the industry technology capability sufficiently so as to be able to reduce and wean off the consumer subsidy program for electric vehicles in the near future. An Inter-Ministerial Technology Advisory Group IM-TAG has been constituted having about 30 experts from academia, industry and Government/ Stakeholder agencies. IM-TAG identified six priority areas for technology development. The mechanism that will be followed by TPEM will be a To create Centers of Excellence CoE and Testing Facilities b Formation of Industry Technology Consortia ITC led by automotive component companies, with significant academic participation and c To encourage innovation Program to support scientific research by academia/ laboratories and to support new product development by private companies.

Biomedical Device and Technology Development

Water Technology Initiative, initiated in August 2007 aims to promote RD activities aimed at providing safe drinking water at affordable cost and in adequate quantity using appropriate Science and Technology interventions evolved through indigenous efforts. Since quality is the main consideration of safe drinking water, processes which imply nano-material and filtration technologies have been focused. The initiative also includes the pilot testing of credible number of products and referencing of selected technologies to the social context of the application region.This pro-active India – centric ‘solution science’ endeavour aims to strengthen the RD capacity and capability to develop the technological solutions for existing and emerging water challenges facing the country. Depending on the objectives of the activities specified in the call for proposal launched from time to time, the projects could be proposed by 1. Individual academicians and scientists working in public/ private/ voluntary sector, ST based voluntary organisation 2. Academic and RD Institutions, Enterprises, State Government bodies such as ST Councils , Autonomous bodies working in water sector and 3. Network of individuals/ institutions may be insisted in the event project activities require multi-disciplinary multi-institutional participation. Several such possible options could include research work by academic / RD institutions in association with Industry / NGO, demonstration in consortia mode involving RD institution/industry/NGO, state government line departments, ST field groups and local panchayats.

Clean coal technology encompass a new generation of energy processes that sharply reduce air emissions and other pollutants from coal-burning power plants. DST’s Call on coal is focused on research, development and demonstration of power generation by using clean coal technologies. The spectrum of activities include translational research to generate and convert know how to useful product / process etc as well as applied research aimed at performance enhancement of existing processes and systems. This would also include but not limited to Research, Design, Development and Engineering R DDE, Prototype Development of Product/System, Process Development, etc.

Innovation in smart grid and storage technologies and the development of community or city scale grids powered largely or solely by renewables that can operate in parallel with, or independently from, the main grid.The objective of this Call is to undertake Research Development in the field of Smart Grids to innovate on components /systems / sub-systems / technologies required to address the challenges related to the design, development, integration, operation, management, and optimization of the grids in a way that can allow the use of up to 100 renewable energy. The funding opportunity will financially support activities towards design, research development and demonstrations that can address the issue of integration and interoperability of existing centralized power networkswithout disturbing the existing power network with renewable energy based power plants in the short run and also develop RD pathways for 100 renewable powered grid.

Nanotechnology quotnanotechquot is manipulation of matter on an atomic, molecular, and supramolecular scale. The earliest, widespread description of nanotechnology referred to the particular technological goal of precisely manipulating atoms and molecules for fabrication of macroscale products, also now referred to as molecular nanotechnology. A more generalized description of nanotechnology was subsequently established by the National Nanotechnology Initiative, which defines nanotechnology as the manipulation of matter with at least one dimension sized from 1 to 100 nanometers. This definition reflects the fact that quantum mechanical effects are important at this quantum-realm scale, and so the definition shifted from a particular technological goal to a research category inclusive of all types of research and technologies that deal with the special properties of matter which occur below the given size threshold

This scheme is designed to produce interdisciplinary researchers and engineers capable of creating fusion fields of nano, bio and information science and engineering

Reduce the production cost of fuel cell systems to be used in transport applications, while increasing their lifetime to levels which can compete with conventional technologies, increase the electrical efficiency and the durability of the different fuel cells used for power production to levels which can compete with conventional technologies, while reducing costs, increase the energy efficiency of production of hydrogen mainly fromwater electrolysis and renewable sources while reducing operating and capital costs, so that the combined system of the hydrogen production and the conversion using the fuel cell system can compete with the alternatives for electricity production available on the market demonstrate on a large scale the feasibility of using hydrogen to support integration of renewable energy sources into the energy systems, including through its use as a competitive energy storage medium for electricity produced from renewable energy sources reduce the use of the ‘Critical raw materials’, for instance through low-platinum or platinum-free resources.

The objective of the call is to develop knowledge through RD and demonstration and developing solutions in the context of Water Conservation, Waste Water Treatment and Water use efficiency in Industry. The focus is on Research and Development proposals, where RD and private sector work together to design generic solutions for optimal water management in industrial sector. These research leads and solutions are expected to generic best practices for wider adoption. The demand for intervention need to be evident and established clearly in the proposal. The present call intends to prioritize the following four challenges i Technological options leading to optimal use of water in industry. ii Industrial waste water treatment and management. iii Near Zero Liquid Discharge Options for effluents including energy savings. iv Balancing water demand and use utilizing technological tools.

The Nano Mission is an umbrella programme for capacity building which envisages the overall development of this field of research in the country and to tap some of its applied potential for nation’s development.

The objective of this Call is to promote affordable and accessible access to clean energy derived from off grid electricity as set forth in the MI-Innovation challenge document. Specifically, the overarching objectives are • For individual homes, the objective is to support significant reduction in price and increase performance of renewable power systems by 2020. • For remote communities, the objective is to demonstrate in diverse geographic and climate conditions, the robust, reliable, autonomous operation of renewable power systems less than at a significant lower cost than today by 2020.

Materials for Energy Storage, a theme based initiative was launched in 2016 to support research and development for entire spectrum of energy storage technologies from early stage research to technology breakthroughs in materials, systems and scalable technologies, including development of systems that incorporate the use of both electricity and thermal energy storage i.e. hybrid systems to maximise resource use efficiency. The scope of initiative includes support for entire chain of oriented research to technology development for new energy storage materials, components, devices, sub-systems and systems. The initiative supports feasibility assessment of fresh ideas/ concepts, including various emerging and disruptive technologies, for their potential conversion into useful technology/ product. Energy storage technologies are based on different scientific principles. Electrochemistry for batteries and reversible fuel cells, electromagnetic fields for capacitors and superconducting magnetic energy storage systems SMES, physicochemistry for the storage of heat and cold and mechanical engineering for flywheels, compressed gas and pumped hydro storage are some of the examples of energy storage. Depending on the objectives of the activities specified in the call for proposal launched from time to time, the eligibility of applicants is determined and mentioned in call document. These could include 1. Individual academicians and scientists working in academies and public funded RD institutions. 2. Academic and RD Institutions, State Government bodies such as ST Councils, Recognised RD bodies having energy portfolio. 3. Network of individuals/ institutions may be insisted in the event project activities require multi-disciplinary multi-institutional participation. These would be defined in the call announcement. Proposals under MES will be entertained only against specific calls. The priorities and commitments of the MES for every year are articulated in the “Call for Proposals”, which would appear on DST website. The criteria for evaluation and evaluation procedure will be part of call document. Interested eligible applicants may apply against the call.