The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) introduces the Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) to promote research among researchers from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories. This initiative aims to provide a platform for these researchers to enhance their capabilities and transition into mainstream research programs. The IRG scheme subsumes the Empowerment and Equity Opportunities for Excellence in Science (EMEQ) scheme of the erstwhile SERB, offering enhanced support and flexible norms.

Nature of Support

The IRG provides funding up to Rs. 60 lakh plus overheads for a duration of three years. This support includes measures to facilitate research, such as flexibility in utilizing resources under the recurring head. Researchers also benefit from flexibility in manpower recruitment, enhanced travel, contingency, and overhead charges.

The grant also supports expenses related to open access publications and patent filing charges. Furthermore, international travel for project-related activities is permitted, enhancing opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The program aims to provide comprehensive support, ensuring researchers have the necessary resources to conduct impactful research.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the IRG, applicants must be Indian Nationals belonging to the Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe category. They should be active researchers working on a regular basis in an academic institution, national lab, or any recognized R&D institution in the field of Science and Engineering.

Applicants must hold a PhD degree in Science or Engineering or MD/MS/MDS degree. Additionally, they should have at least four years of service remaining before superannuation as of the date of submission of the proposal.

Researchers who have ongoing projects under the IRG / erstwhile EMEQ scheme are not eligible to apply. Co-investigators are not allowed in this scheme, and an investigator can avail the IRG project for a maximum of three times in their career, including EMEQ projects.

• Must be an Indian National.

• Belong to the Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe category.

• Hold a PhD degree in Science or Engineering or MD/MS/MDS degree.

Application and Selection Process

The call for applications is announced once a year through the websites www.anrfonline.in and www.anrf.gov.in. Applicants must prepare their project proposals according to the provided guidelines and submit them online through the website www.anrfonline.in.

The selection process is based on the recommendations of a Task Force Committee constituted for this purpose. The committee may invite applicants for a personal discussion if deemed necessary.

Applicants should ensure that their proposals are well-structured and aligned with the objectives of the IRG scheme.

Operational Flexibility and Terms

The IRG provides operational flexibility under the Recurring - I head, covering consumables, research personnel, travel, contingency, and other costs. Expenditure under the travel head is limited to Rs. 3 Lakh for a three-year project, with proportionate adjustments for shorter durations. International travel is permitted within this limit.

Contingency expenditure is capped at Rs. 3 Lakh for a three-year project, and these funds can be used for registration charges for international conferences. Operational flexibility is also provided for engaging research personnel, adhering to ANRF norms.

Expenditure towards open access publications in top journals is permitted, subject to prior approval from ANRF. Funds can also be utilized for patent filing charges. Interoperability between non-recurring and recurring budgets is not allowed.

Project Monitoring and Fund Utilization

PIs are required to submit annual progress reports through the ANRF online portal. The project will be periodically monitored by ANRF, and PIs may be required to attend monitoring meetings or workshops to present their research progress. ANRF may also designate specialists to visit the host institute to review the project's progress.

The host institute and PI must ensure that funds are used exclusively for the approved research project. Separate audited accounts must be maintained, and any accrued interest should be reported to ANRF. Unspent balances must be returned to ANRF upon project completion.

ANRF reserves the right to terminate the project if progress is insufficient, funds are misused, or false information is provided. The host institute is responsible for providing essential infrastructure for the project.