Indian Government Launches VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme

Introduction of the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme

The Indian government has announced a new fellowship scheme, called the Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) fellowships programme, to strengthen connections between the Indian STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) diaspora and academic and research institutions in India.

This initiative, implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology, aims to promote collaborative research activities, information sharing, and the exchange of best practices in cutting-edge fields of science and technology.

Connecting Indian STEMM Diaspora with Indian Institutions

The VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme targets outstanding scientists and technologists of Indian origin (NRI/OCI/PIO) who are actively engaged in research in their respective countries. These distinguished fellows will be granted the opportunity to work in 18 different knowledge verticals, including quantum technology, health, pharmaceuticals, electronics, food, energy, computer sciences, and material sciences, among others.

The VAIBHAV Summit and its Implications

To facilitate the connection between the Indian STEMM diaspora and Indian institutions, the Government of India organized the VAIBHAV Summit, a major event that attracted over 25,000 participants. The summit, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, witnessed the active participation of representatives from the Indian STEMM diaspora hailing from over 70 different nations.

The VAIBHAV programme, developed and implemented as a result of the summit, seeks to strengthen collaboration between scientists from the Indian diaspora and Indian Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), universities, and public-funded scientific institutions.

VAIBHAV Fellowship Application and Collaboration

As part of the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme, applications are currently being accepted through a call for proposals from June 15, 2023, to July 31, 2023. Interested candidates can choose an Indian institution of their preference and may spend up to two months per year for a maximum period of three years in their selected host institution.

The fellowship provides a grant of US$ 4,864.49 (Rs. 4,00,000 per month), along with accommodation, international and domestic travel expenses, and contingencies. VAIBHAV fellows are expected to collaborate closely with their Indian counterparts and contribute to the launch of research initiatives in the host universities, focusing on the forefront of science and technology.

By establishing the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme, the Indian government aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange between the Indian STEMM diaspora and Indian higher educational institutions. This initiative seeks to leverage the expertise and diverse experiences of scientists and technologists of Indian origin residing abroad, in order to drive research and innovation in India's scientific landscape.

Conclusion: Strengthening Collaborative Research and Innovation

The introduction of the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme marks a significant step by the Indian government to strengthen connections between the Indian STEMM diaspora and Indian higher educational institutions. This fellowship scheme provides a unique opportunity for outstanding scientists and technologists of Indian origin residing abroad to collaborate with their Indian counterparts and contribute to cutting-edge research in various fields of science and technology.

By fostering collaborative research and innovation, the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme aims to facilitate the sharing of knowledge, wisdom, and best practices between the Indian diaspora and Indian institutions. This exchange of expertise will not only enrich the scientific landscape of India but also foster a global network of collaboration and cooperation.

The VAIBHAV Summit, with its massive participation and engagement from the Indian STEMM diaspora, showcased the enthusiasm and willingness of scientists and technologists of Indian origin to contribute to their home country's progress. The fellowship programme builds upon this momentum, providing a platform for collaboration that will drive advancements in quantum technology, healthcare, electronics, energy, and many other critical areas.

As the fellowship applications are being accepted, it is an opportune time for scientists and technologists of Indian origin to seize this chance to reconnect with their roots and make a significant impact in India's scientific community. The generous financial support and provisions offered through the fellowship ensure that the fellows can fully focus on their research and contribute to the growth and development of their chosen host institutions.

The VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme demonstrates India's commitment to leveraging the vast knowledge and expertise of its diaspora to propel scientific advancements and technological innovations. It serves as a bridge, connecting the Indian STEMM diaspora with Indian higher educational institutions, creating a conducive environment for collaboration and nurturing a spirit of innovation.

Through the VAIBHAV Fellowship Programme, India is poised to become a hub of global scientific collaboration, attracting talent from around the world and fostering an environment of excellence and innovation. This initiative holds the promise of transformative research outcomes and paves the way for India's continued leadership in the realms of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine.