VAIBHAV Fellowship Program

Q Why is it in News ?

A The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) fellowships programme.

Q What is VAIBHAV Program ?

A 

• The program aims to connect the Indian STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) diaspora with Indian academic and R&D institutions.
• It promotes collaborative research work, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of best practices in frontier areas of science and technology.

VAIBHAV Summit and Participation

• The Government of India organized the VAIBHAV Summit to connect the Indian STEMM diaspora with Indian institutions.
• The summit was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister and saw the participation of over 25,000 attendees.
• Indian STEMM diaspora from more than 70 countries took part in the deliberations.

Q What are the conditions of Implementation and Eligibility ?

 A

• Implementing Agency: Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology.
• Beneficiaries: outstanding scientists/technologists of Indian origin (NRI/OCI/PIO) engaged in research activities in their respective countries.
• Benefits: Grant of INR 4,00,000 per month, international and domestic travel expenses, accommodation, and contingencies
• Verticals identified: 75 fellows will be selected to work in 18 identified knowledge verticals, including quantum technology, health, pharma, electronics, agriculture, energy, computer sciences, and material sciences.
• Collaborations: The VAIBHAV Fellow will collaborate with Indian Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), universities, and/or public-funded scientific institutions.
• R&D Activity: The fellow can spend up to 2 months per year, for a maximum of 3years, in an Indian institution.