CSIR-ASPIRE Scheme

Source– This post on CSIR-ASPIRE Scheme is based on the article “300 women Scientists to get research grants for 3 years under CSIR- ASPIRE scheme” says Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh”  published in “PIB” on 14th June 2024.

Why in the News?

300 women scientists to receive research grants for three years under the CSIR-ASPIRE scheme.

About CSIR-ASPIRE Scheme

1. About: The ASPIRE scheme is an initiative by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to provide research grants to women scientists and technologists.

2. Aim: The scheme aims to support women in conducting research in various fields of science and technology. The scheme also aims to promote and encourage women to participate in scientific research and technology development in India.

3. Criteria: The CSIR ASPIRE Women Research Grant is open to women scientists and technologists who are Indian citizens and have a PhD degree in any area of science or technology.

4. The scheme is also open to women:

i) who have completed their PhD and have at least three years of research experience.

ii) scientists and technologists who have taken a career break due to family responsibilities and want to resume their research careers.

Benefits of the ASPIRE Scheme

1. Financial Support: The ASPIRE scheme provides research grants to women scientists and technologists for conducting research in various fields of science and technology.

2. International Exposure: The scheme also offers funding for international travel, enabling women scientists to attend conferences and workshops abroad, facilitating global exposure and collaboration.

3. Participation in Research: The CSIR ASPIRE Women Research Grant aims to promote and encourage women to participate in scientific research and technology development in India.

4. Support for Underrepresented Areas: The scheme focuses on supporting women in conducting research in areas where they are traditionally underrepresented, helping to bridge the gender gap in these fields.

About One Week One Lab initiative

1. The ‘One Week One Lab’ initiative is a countrywide campaign of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in India.

2. The campaign aims to showcase the technological breakthroughs and scientific innovations of CSIR labs across the country.

3. There are 37 CSIR labs dedicated to different areas of work, which will have an opportunity to present their achievements and inform stakeholders about their work.

UPSC Syllabus: Schemes and programme