E-YUVA Scheme: E-YUVA Centers 2026

The WISE-SCOPE Fellowship by the Department of Science & Technology supports women PhD holders in applying their Read More... science and technology expertise to solve societal challenges and improve lives. Read less

Details

India's Department of Science & Technology (DST) is driving innovation for social good through its WISE-SCOPE Fellowship. This program is designed to empower women scientists and technologists who have earned their PhD. It's all about channeling their knowledge and skills towards real-world societal problems.

The core idea is to develop practical Science & Technology solutions that can be taken from the lab to the community. Projects funded under WISE-SCOPE aim to address challenges at the grassroots level, contributing to better livelihoods, reduced drudgery, improved health and nutrition, smarter natural resource management, sustainable agriculture, and tackling climate change impacts.

What Is This Scheme?

The "Women In Science and Engineering-Societal Challenges with Opportunities (WISE-SCOPE) Fellowship" Program is an initiative by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. It provides a platform for women with PhDs to use their S&T expertise for the benefit of society. The fellowship encourages projects that find science-based solutions for social issues, livelihood enhancement, and sustainable development.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This fellowship is for women scientists and technologists who have completed their PhD in basic or applied sciences, or hold equivalent degrees like MD/MS/MDS. The program specifically targets individuals looking to apply their research to community-level challenges.

Why This Scheme Is Important

WISE-SCOPE plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between scientific research and societal needs. It encourages women in STEM to take on challenges that matter most to the public, fostering a culture of innovation for social impact. The program supports the development and transfer of practical technologies, aiming for a tangible improvement in the lives of ordinary citizens.

Objective

The WISE-SCOPE Fellowship by the Department of Science & Technology supports women PhD holders in applying their science and technology expertise to solve societal challenges and improve lives.

Benefits

Financial Support to each EYC:A. Non-recurring Head (Creating pre-incubation space):Year 1 (INR in Lakhs)Year 2 (INR in Lakhs)Year 3 (INR in Lakhs)Total (INR in Lakhs)Refurbishing Cost100010Equipment Cost300030Sub Total (A)400040B. Recurring Head:Year 1 (INR in Lakhs)Year 2 (INR in Lakhs)Year 3 (INR in Lakhs)Total (INR in Lakhs)4 Workshops @1 lakh each44412Manpower for EYC (@5% increase/year) Coordinator – 1 @₹75,000/-, Project assistant – 1 @₹25,000/- and Office assistant – 1 @₹15,000/-13.8014.4915.2143.50Travel for EYC staff1113Outreach, publications etc.1113Honorarium for conducting review meetings1113Contingency1113Sub Total (B)21.8022.4923.2167.50Total Support (A+B)61.8022.4923.21107.50

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

Age: Applicants must be between 27 and 60 years old as of the application submission date.
Educational Qualification: Must hold a PhD in Basic or Applied Sciences, or an equivalent degree like MD/MS/MDS.
Employment Status: Women in regular employment are not eligible. However, those temporarily employed in research or academics can apply, but they must leave their current assignments if selected for the WISE-SCOPE program. A position as a Post-Doctoral Fellow or Research Associate is considered a temporary assignment.

How To Apply

Interested candidates can submit their project proposals through the online portal.
The application submission is open throughout the year.
Submit your proposals at the ePMS portal: https://onlinedst.gov.in.

Documents Required

CV of the Mentor
Conflict of Interest Policy Document
Endorsement Letter from the Head of the Institute
Complete Project Proposal
Highest Degree Certificate (PhD or equivalent)
Consent Letter from Mentor
Undertaking
HRA declaration certificate
Date of Birth Proof

FAQ’s

What is the main goal of the WISE-SCOPE Fellowship?

The WISE-SCOPE Fellowship aims to give women scientists and technologists who have completed their PhD a chance to use their skills and knowledge to create positive change in society.

Which government department runs this fellowship?

This fellowship is managed by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.

Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?

Women who have earned a PhD in Basic or Applied Sciences, or have equivalent degrees such as MD/MS/MDS, are eligible to apply for the WISE-SCOPE fellowship.

What are the key areas that projects under this fellowship should focus on?

Projects can cover these broad thematic areas: Energy, Water and Waste Management (EWWM); Engineering and Technology Development (ETD); Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development (ECSD); Agriculture and Allied Sciences (AAS); and Health, Food, and Nutrition (HFN).

What kind of support can a selected fellow expect?

Fellows will receive a monthly stipend of ₹55,000 plus HRA, an annual research grant of ₹2.00 Lakhs, up to ₹1.00 Lakh for field demonstrations, and funds up to ₹2.00 Lakhs for small equipment. Institutional overhead charges are also covered as per DST norms.

What is the age limit for applicants?

The age requirement is between 27 and 60 years old as of the date you submit your application.

Can someone who is currently employed in a permanent job apply?

No, this fellowship is not for individuals in regular employment. However, if you are temporarily employed in research or academia, you may apply, but you'll need to leave your current position if you are selected.

How long can a project run under this fellowship?

Projects funded under the WISE-SCOPE fellowship can last for a maximum of 3 years.

I'm temporarily employed in research. Can I still apply?

Yes, women scientists in temporary research or academic roles are welcome to apply. Just be aware that if selected, you'll need to leave your current temporary assignment.

When is the deadline to submit applications?

There isn't a specific deadline, as the online application portal for proposal submission is open throughout the entire year.

How do I go about applying for this program?

You can apply for the WISE-SCOPE fellowship by submitting your proposals online through the ePMS portal at https://onlinedst.gov.in.