which of the following schemes is formulated to mitigate gender disparity in science and engineering research funding in various Science & Technology means in Indian academic institutions and R&D laboratories?

Correct option is D

​The correct answer is (d) SERB—POWER.

Explanation:

• The SERB-POWER (Science and Engineering Research Board - Promoting Opportunities for Women in Excellence Research) scheme, was launched in 2020.
• It is specifically designed to mitigate gender disparity in science and engineering research funding in Indian academic institutions and R&D laboratories.
• ​launched by the Ministry of Science and Technology in India​
  

Information Booster:

SERB-POWER Scheme: Empowering Women in Research:

The SERB-POWER (Promoting Opportunities for Women in Exploratory Research) Scheme aims to establish a structured funding framework to support and empower women researchers. It comprises two key components:

1. SERB-POWER Fellowship

• Target Audience: Women researchers aged 35 to 55 years. The program awards up to 25 fellowships annually, ensuring that no more than 75 fellowships are active at any given time.
• Support Provided:
• Fellowship Amount: ₹15,000 per month
• Research Grant: ₹10 lakhs per annum
• Additional Overhead: ₹90,000 per annum
• Duration: Three years, with no extension allowed.

2. SERB-POWER Research Grants

The research grants are divided into two funding levels based on institutional affiliation:

• Level I: Up to ₹60 lakhs for three years for researchers from government institutes, national laboratories, IITs, IISERs, IISc, NITs, and similar institutions.
• Level II: Up to ₹30 lakhs for three years for researchers from private or state universities/colleges.

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for grants or fellowships under SERB-POWER, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Must be an Indian citizen.
• Should hold a regular academic/research position in a recognized academic institution.
• Must adhere to SERB-CRG guidelines for research grants.
• Cannot hold both the SERB-POWER Fellowship and Research Grant simultaneously.
• Faculty members recruited through the UGC-Faculty Recharge Program are eligible to apply.
• This initiative serves as a milestone in bridging gender disparities in scientific research, ensuring that women scientists receive the support they need to excel in their fields.