To strengthen scientific ties between India and Sri Lanka, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the Ministry of Education, Research and Innovation Division, Government of Sri Lanka, have announced the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Research Programme Call for S&T Workshop Proposals 2024. This initiative, part of the renewed Programme of Cooperation (PoC) in Science and Technology, aims to catalyze joint research efforts and knowledge exchange between the two nations.
Key Details of the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Research Programme
The call for proposals opens on September 1, 2024, and closes on October 15, 2024, at 5:30 PM (IST). Scientists and researchers from both countries are invited to submit their proposals for bilateral workshops in various cutting-edge fields.
Focus Areas for Collaboration
The program encourages proposals in several key areas, including:
- Food Technology
- Plant-based Medicines
- Robotics & Automation
- Renewable Energy
- Waste Management
- Information and Communication Technology
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Aerospace Engineering
- Big Data Analysis
- Artificial Intelligence
Additionally, proposals in other areas of national relevance will be considered with proper justification.
Application Process: Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Research Programme
The application process emphasizes the bilateral nature of the programme:
For Sri Lankan Applicants:
- Submit completed application forms and attachments to [email protected] by October 15, 2024
- Forward two hard copies to the relevant Implementing Agency
- Ensure endorsement by the competent authority
For Indian Applicants:
- Submit proposals through www.onlinedst.gov.in by October 15, 2024, 5:30 PM IST
- Navigate to the International Cooperation (bilateral) section after registration
- Ensure Sri Lankan partners submit identical proposals to their respective agency
Workshop Requirements and Financial Support
Successful proposals will receive funding to organize bilateral workshops with specific requirements:
- Co-organizers from both India and Sri Lanka
- Participation from both countries
- One Co-PI from the PI’s institution for each side
- The tentative schedule and list of speakers to be submitted with the proposal
Financial support covers international airfare, local hospitality, and organizational expenses. The maximum budget per project is INR 7 Lakhs for the Indian side and 2.5 Million Sri Lankan Rupees for the Sri Lankan side.
Assessment Criteria: Ensuring Quality and Relevance
Proposals will undergo a rigorous evaluation process, considering factors such as:
- Alignment with national policies
- Scientific capacity and novelty
- Rationale for cooperation
- Potential benefits to industry and human resource development
- Feasibility and budget appropriateness
A Joint Committee will make the final funding decisions based on these assessments.
Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Undertaking by the Heads of collaborating Institutions
- CVs of the Indian and Sri Lankan PIs and Co-PIs
- Proposed workshop schedule and list of speakers
Implications for Indo-Sri Lankan Scientific Cooperation
This programme represents a significant opportunity for scientists and researchers from both countries to forge new collaborations, share knowledge, and work together on pressing challenges. By focusing on areas of mutual interest and national importance, the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Research Programme aims to drive innovation and strengthen the scientific capabilities of both nations.
As the application deadline approaches, the scientific communities in India and Sri Lanka are encouraged to seize this opportunity to contribute to advancing science and technology in the region. The outcomes of these workshops are expected to pave the way for long-term research partnerships and technological breakthroughs that benefit both countries.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting initiative and its potential to shape the future of Indo-Sri Lankan scientific collaboration.
