In a significant boost for women in science, Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, announced that 300 women scientists will receive research grants for three years under the CSIR-ASPIRE scheme. The announcement was made during a review meeting of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR).
Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of innovation in science and technology to empower citizens, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting ease of living. The CSIR-ASPIRE scheme, launched on International Women’s Day last year, received around 3,000 proposals. After a thorough screening process, 301 research proposals were selected for support.
During the meeting, Dr. Singh praised the success of the ‘One Week One Lab’ initiative and suggested scaling it up to a ‘One Week One Theme’ initiative. The OWOL campaign showcases the innovations and technological breakthroughs of CSIR’s 37 labs across the nation. Dr. Singh urged the team to strengthen connections with industries, MSMEs, start-ups, and other stakeholders.
The minister also highlighted the Seaweed Mission, emphasizing its role in promoting a sustainable green economy through commercial cultivation. He commended CSIR’s efforts in transforming pathogenic biomedical waste into value-added soil additives and celebrated the success of projects like the E-Tiller, the 108-petal lotus, and the Purple Mission.
Dr. Singh directed CSIR scientists to integrate the Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase (PI-CHeCK) with AI and machine learning models to develop targeted diagnostic and prognostic technologies, paving the way for precision medicine in India and beyond. He also reviewed progress on a comprehensive database of Indian women’s foot anthropometry and gait, aimed at developing supportive footwear to prevent osteoarthritis and other complications.
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In a separate review meeting with the Department of Bio-Technology (DBT), Dr. Singh highlighted the growth of India’s bio-economy, which has expanded from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024. He announced an exclusive scheme to promote biomanufacturing and bio-foundry, which will provide eco-friendly alternatives like biodegradable polymers, bio-plastics, bio-pharmaceuticals, and bio-agri inputs to support bio-startups and the bio-economy.
Dr. Singh stressed the importance of achieving BIO E3—Bio-economy, Environment, and Employment—and encouraged the development of indigenous technologies and products. He called for the integration of research between research institutions, industrial R&D, and the startup ecosystem.
The meetings were attended by Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, DBT, and Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, DG, CSIR, along with senior scientists and officials from both departments.
