Background and Call Relevance

Methane is a significant greenhouse gas, second only to carbon dioxide, with a global warming potential far exceeding CO2 over a shorter timeframe. Reducing methane emissions is crucial for mitigating global temperature rise and achieving climate objectives outlined in the Paris Agreement. India's climate strategy includes reducing methane emissions, necessitating technological innovation and policy measures.

Targeting methane emissions from sectors like oil and natural gas, coal mining, landfills, and wastewater is essential. For instance, the oil and gas sector contributes nearly 25% of global methane emissions. Effective methane management in these sectors is vital for a sustainable future.

This call for proposals by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) focuses on research and development (R&D) and technology assessment. The aim is to identify and prioritize breakthrough Methane Monitoring and Mitigation Technologies (M3T) in the aforementioned sectors.

Objectives and Expected Deliverables

The M3T program aims to develop technologies for identifying, measuring, monitoring, and eliminating methane emissions. R&D efforts will focus on multiple areas to reduce emissions across different sectors. The call emphasizes specific technical themes within the oil and natural gas, coal mining, landfills, and wastewater sectors.

For the oil and natural gas sector, key areas include advanced monitoring and detection, continuous monitoring and data integration, and methane capture from operations. Technologies to reduce transmission and distribution losses are also of interest. The call seeks proposals for technologies at various Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).

In the coal mining sector, research is needed to address safety, environmental, and economic challenges related to methane emissions. Key areas include data collection and analysis, predictive methodologies and emission assessment, and enhanced coal mine methane drainage. Development of effective methane sensors is also crucial.

Thematic Areas and Research Requirements

For landfills, research areas include carbon sequestration, emission modeling, and lifecycle analysis of mitigation strategies. Feasibility studies for implementing methane mitigation strategies and exploring advanced waste management technologies are also encouraged.

In the wastewater sector, focus areas include anaerobic digestion optimization and innovative sludge management. Technologies for methane production, recovery, and utilization are also of interest. The call also encourages research into emerging methane capture technologies.

The call has two streams: Applied Research Stream, leading to Proof-of-Concept and Technology Assessment Stream, for translational R&D and validation at TRLs 4-5. The Technology Assessment Stream requires inclusion of life-cycle (LCA) and techno-economic (TEA), Socio-economic (SEA) assessments.

Eligibility and Funding Details

The Applied Research Stream is open to faculties/scientists in recognized academic organizations and public-funded R&D institutions. The Technology Assessment Stream requires partnerships with academic, R&D organizations, industries, and users. Participation of industries, users, start-ups, and industry associations is strongly recommended.

The indicative project cost for the Applied Research Stream is not exceeding ₹ 1 crore, while for the Technology Assessment Stream, it is not exceeding ₹ 2 crores. Equipment costs are not expected to exceed 30% of the project cost. Overheads are admissible as per DST norms. The project duration for both streams is 36 months.

The last date for submission of proposals is 13th March 2025. Proposals must be submitted online through the DST e-PMS portal. The call emphasizes innovative and transformational work aligned with National Net Zero Commitments and Climate goals.

Proposal Submission and Evaluation

Proposals should clearly define indicators of success and include quantified benchmarks within target timelines. Intellectual Property (IP) Generation should be a focused deliverable. Project implementing organizations will be required to maintain an Open Access Policy.

Evaluation criteria include the relevance of the proposal, demand for the proposed work, credibility of the project team, and novelty of the proposed work. The technical, environmental, and economic viability of the proposed work will also be assessed. The proposal should clearly articulate expected outcomes and impacts.

For any queries, applicants can contact the designated persons at the Climate, Energy, and Sustainable Technology (CEST) Division of DST. Proposals must be submitted in the prescribed format through the online portal. No hard copies are to be submitted.