AICTE e-Shodh Sindhu Scheme (eSS) 2026
The SERB POWER Research Grants aim to support emerging and established women researchers with competitive funding for Read More... cutting-edge R&D projects in science and engineering. Read less
Details
The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, has launched the SERB-POWER (Promoting Opportunities For Women in Exploratory Research) program. A key part of this initiative is the 'SERB - POWER Research Grants', designed to tackle gender inequality in science and engineering research funding across India.
What is SERB-POWER Research Grants?
This program specifically targets women scientists in India, offering them a competitive platform to secure funding for their research. It's all about ensuring equal access and greater opportunities for women engaged in scientific research and development activities in academic institutions and R&D labs.
Who Can Benefit?
The grants are for women researchers who want to conduct research and development in advanced areas of science and engineering. It's tailored to support both emerging talents and experienced scientists.
Why This Scheme Matters
The core purpose is to boost diversity in research by empowering women scientists. By providing structured support, the scheme encourages women to lead and contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries and technological advancements in India.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
Who Can Apply?
- Citizenship: Applicants, including the Principal Investigator (PI) and any Co-Principal Investigators (Co-PIs), must be Indian citizens.
- Position: Applicants must hold a permanent academic or research position at a recognized Indian institution, national laboratory, or R&D organization.
- Institution Type:
- Level I: Applicants from IITs, IISERs, IISc, NITs, Central Universities, and National Laboratories under Central Government Institutions are eligible for Level I.
- Level II: Applicants from State Universities/Colleges and Private Academic Institutions should apply for Level II.
- Fellowship Holders: UGC-Faculty Recharge Program recruits are eligible. INSPIRE Faculty, Ramanujan, and Ramalingaswamy Fellows can apply if they have at least three and a half years of tenure remaining at the application submission date.
- Co-PI Requirement: A mandatory female Co-PI from the same institute is required.
- No Male Co-PI: Male Co-PIs are not permitted in this scheme.
- Advisor Restriction: A PhD guide cannot serve as a Co-PI.
- Previous Grant Holders: Researchers who have already received a POWER Grant are not eligible to apply again.
- Other Restrictions: JC Bose fellows and PIs who have completed two CRG projects are ineligible for the POWER Grant.
- Number of Co-PIs: A project can have a maximum of two Co-PIs.
Important Notes:
- Women Scientists cannot simultaneously hold a POWER Fellowship and a POWER Grant.
- The grant management follows SERB-CRG guidelines.
- For Tier II institutions (with a ₹30 lakhs funding limit), the budget for equipment is capped at ₹14 lakhs.
How to Apply
- Keep an eye on the official SERB website for announcements regarding the call for applications. You can check www.serbonline.in and serb.gov.in.
- Once the call is open, submit your application online through the SERB online portal: www.serbonline.in.
- Ensure your application includes a comprehensive research proposal detailing the work you intend to undertake.
Documents You Might Need
- Identity proof.
- Passport-sized photograph.
- Detailed proposal document.
- Certificates for educational qualifications.
- Any other documents as specifically requested.
FAQ’s
Can I have a male Co-Investigator for my SERB-POWER research project?
No, only female Co-Investigators are permitted for SERB-POWER research projects. However, if the research requires complementary expertise, a separate budget can be allocated to female Co-Investigators, even if they are from different institutions.
What are the funding limits for the SERB-POWER Research Grants?
The SERB-POWER grants are provided in two categories: Level I offers funding up to ₹60 lakhs for three years, while Level II provides funding up to ₹30 lakhs for three years.
Which institutions fall under Level I and Level II for the SERB-POWER grant?
Level I is for applicants from IITs, IISERs, IISc, NITs, Central Universities, and National Labs of Central Government Institutions. Applicants from State Universities/Colleges and Private Academic Institutions should apply under the Level II category.
If I am already managing a CRG project, can I apply for a SERB-POWER Grant?
No, you cannot apply for a SERB-POWER Grant if you have an ongoing CRG/SRG/SURE/SUPRA project. The Board generally funds only one project per investigator at a time, except for specific calls for proposals.
Where can I find the application form and submit my proposal?
The call for applications will be announced on the SERB website. You need to submit your application and research proposal online through the portal at www.serbonline.in.
Is it possible for a woman scientist to receive both a SERB-POWER Fellowship and a SERB-POWER Research Grant simultaneously?
No, a woman scientist cannot hold both a SERB-POWER Fellowship and a SERB-POWER Research Grant at the same time.
What are the eligible expenditure heads for the SERB-POWER Research Grant?
The grant can be utilized for equipment, research personnel, consumables, travel, and contingency. Additionally, 'Overheads' are provided to the implementing institution according to SERB's prevailing norms.
Does SERB have specific research areas it prefers for the POWER Grant?
No, SERB funds proposals across all fields of science and engineering without any disciplinary preference. The key criteria for funding are the novelty of the research and the investigator's capability to execute the project.
What is the duration of the grant, and how is the selection process conducted?
The POWER Grant is provided for a duration of three years. The selection is based on recommendations from the Program Advisory Committee (PAC) constituted by SERB. Applicants might be invited for a discussion or presentation if deemed necessary.
Can I apply for a POWER Grant if I am currently a Co-PI on an ongoing CRG project?
Yes, you can apply for the POWER Grant even if you are a Co-Principal Investigator on an ongoing CRG project. This is also true if you have an active EMEQ/IRPHA/MATRIX project.
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