SERB-POWER Scheme: Empowering Women Researchers in India

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<<<<<<-2a h2>SERB-POWER Scheme: Empowering Women Researchers in India

Despite significant strides in various fields, gender disparity persists in the domain of scientific research. The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), aims to address this gap with the SERB-POWER (Promoting Opportunities for Women in Exploratory Research) Scheme.

  • Understanding the SERB-POWER Scheme
  • SERB-POWER Fellowship:
    • SERB-POWER Research Grants:
    • Objectives of the SERB-POWER Scheme
    • Eligibility for SERB-POWER
    • Impact and Success Stories

Understanding the SERB-POWER Scheme

The SERB-POWER scheme is a visionary initiative that tackles the underrepresentation of women in science and engineering research in India. It has two key components:

  • SERB-POWER Fellowship:
    • Provides individual-centric research support to women scientists.
    • Offers a fellowship of ₹15,000 per month for three years, along with research grants.
  • SERB-POWER Research Grants:
    • Offers substantial funding (up to ₹60 lakhs) to women scientists to establish independent research projects in frontier areas of science and engineering.

Objectives of the SERB-POWER Scheme

  • Nurturing Women Scientists: Create a conducive EnvironmentEnvironmentEnvironment for talented women scientists to excel in research.
  • Reducing Gender Imbalance: Bridge the gap in representation by providing equal access and opportunities for women in research.
  • Promoting High-Quality Research: Fund cutting-edge research projects by women, ensuring India’s scientific progress.

Eligibility for SERB-POWER

  • Nationality: Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
  • Academic Qualifications: Possess a Ph.D. in science or engineering.
  • Institutional Affiliation: Hold a regular academic or research position in a recognized institution in India.

Impact and Success Stories

Since its inception, the SERB-POWER scheme has made considerable contributions:

  • Increased Funding: A substantial increase in the number of women researchers receiving competitive research grants in various science and technology domains.
  • Diversity in Research: Empowers women scientists to pursue niche and challenging areas of research.
  • Mentorship and Networking: Provides women researchers with opportunities to connect with mentors and build networks within the scientific community.

FAQs about SERB-POWER

  • What levels of support are available under the SERB-POWER Research Grants?
    • Level I: Funding up to ₹60 lakhs.
    • Level II: Funding up to ₹30 lakhs.
  • Can I apply for both the Fellowship and Research Grant?
    • No, an applicant can apply for only one of the components at a time.
  • How is the selection made for SERB-POWER awards?
    • A rigorous evaluation process by expert committees ensures selection based on merit and the potential impact of research.

What is the objective of this scheme?

The scheme aims to empower and support women researchers in India.

Who is eligible to apply for the scheme?

Women researchers working in various fields of science and technology are eligible to apply.

What kind of support does the scheme provide?

The scheme provides financial assistance and other resources to enable women researchers to pursue their research goals.

How can women researchers apply for this support?

Women researchers can apply for the scheme through the designated application process outlined by the authorities.

What are the criteria for selection under this scheme?

Selection criteria typically include the quality of the research proposal, the track record of the researcher, and the potential impact of the research.

Is there any specific focus area or field of research targeted by the scheme?

The scheme generally supports research across various disciplines within the realm of science and technology.

Are there any age restrictions for applying to the scheme?

The scheme typically does not have any age restrictions for applicants.

What are the reporting and monitoring requirements for beneficiaries of the scheme?

Beneficiaries are often required to submit progress reports and undergo periodic monitoring to track the progress of their research.

Can applicants from all regions of India apply for this scheme?

Yes, the scheme is usually open to women researchers from all regions of India.

Is there any provision for mentoring or networking under this scheme?

Yes, some versions of the scheme may include provisions for mentoring, networking, and other capacity-building activities to support women researchers.

MCQs

  1. The SERB-POWER Scheme is implemented by: