In a major move to reinforce India’s scientific and research capabilities, the Union Cabinet has approved a ₹2,277 crore umbrella scheme aimed at nurturing research talent, providing fellowships, and enhancing knowledge-sharing across scientific communities. The scheme, titled ‘Capacity Building and Human Resource Development (CBHRD)’, will be implemented by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and run till 2025-26, aligning with the 15th Finance Commission cycle.
This initiative underscores India’s push to build a future-ready innovation ecosystem, with direct benefits for research scholars, scientific institutions, and emerging technology domains across the country.
Four-pronged approach to promote research and talent
The CBHRD scheme is structured around four key sub-programmes, each addressing a specific pillar of the research and development ecosystem:
-
Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships – to train early-stage researchers and support their long-term academic careers.
-
Extramural Research, Emeritus Scientist & Bhatnagar Fellowship – to promote excellence among senior researchers and recognise outstanding scientific contributions.
-
Awards and Recognition – to honour top-performing scientists and innovators.
-
Travel and Symposia Grants – to enable Indian researchers to participate in global knowledge-sharing platforms, conferences, and collaborative programmes.
This multifaceted strategy will support researchers across all R&D institutions, Institutes of National Importance, IITs, IISERs, and universities, ensuring a wide national footprint.
A platform for young researchers and future-ready innovation
Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that the scheme will play a vital role in training and retaining top research talent, especially in STEMM fields — Science, Technology and Engineering, Medical, and Mathematical Sciences.
“The scheme will strengthen India’s R&D foundation by nurturing scientific talent and promoting innovation, preparing Indian science for global leadership,” he said.
The program is expected to benefit thousands of young scholars, including those working in MSME-related innovation, applied science, health-tech, clean energy, materials science, and more.
Also read: Make in India Push Powers Pharma Surplus
India rises in global research rankings
The approval of the CBHRD scheme comes as India steadily climbs global innovation benchmarks. According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), India now ranks 39th in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024.
Moreover, as per the US National Science Foundation, India has entered the top three countries globally in terms of scientific research publications.
Science and Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted that the scheme will “accelerate India’s position as a knowledge-based economy” and foster collaboration between academia, government labs, and industry — including startups and early-stage deep-tech ventures.