The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has endorsed the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) / Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) programme on “Capacity Building and Human Resource Development (CBHRD)” with an aggregate allocation of ₹2,277.397 crore for the Fifteenth Finance Commission period (2021-22 to 2025-26). This far-reaching initiative seeks to fortify India’s research framework, cultivate talent, and establish the nation as a global frontrunner in science, technology, and innovation.
The CBHRD programme, administered by CSIR, will broaden its coverage to include:
- All R&D institutions and national laboratories
- Institutes of National Importance and Institutes of Eminence
- Universities and academic institutions across the country
This programme offers a broad platform for early-career researchers, scientists, and innovators to pursue careers in academia, industry, and national research labs. Under the guidance of distinguished scientists, the scheme nurtures talent across Science, Technology, Engineering, Medical, and Mathematical Sciences (STEMM).
The scheme directly contributes to India’s pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in science and technology by increasing the number of skilled researchers per million population. With improved capacity development, the nation intends to:
- Reinforce its innovation ecosystem
- Boost global scientific competitiveness
- Motivate more young people to opt for research careers
Over the past decade, India has recorded notable gains in R&D. According to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) rankings, India rose to 39th place in the Global Innovation Index (2024). As reported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), USA, India is now among the top three countries for scientific paper output.
The Cabinet’s clearance represents a landmark in CSIR’s 84 years of contribution to Indian scientific and industrial research. The overarching CBHRD programme has been structured into four principal sub-schemes:
- Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships – Promoting advanced research and fostering talent at the highest scholarly levels.
- Extramural Research Scheme, Emeritus Scientist Scheme, and Bhatnagar Fellowship – Enabling collaborative and independent research while recognizing eminent scientists.
- Promotion and Recognition of Excellence through Award Schemes – Honouring exceptional contributions to Indian science.
- Travel and Symposia Grant Scheme – Enabling international exposure and the exchange of knowledge via conferences, symposia, and workshops.
These sub-schemes intend to expand capacity, reward excellence, and encourage knowledge dissemination, ensuring a comprehensive strategy for talent development.
By generating thousands of positions for doctoral researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and scientists, the programme will markedly boost India’s knowledge-driven economy. It will also underpin partnerships with international institutions, cultivating an atmosphere of innovation-led growth.
The government’s backing for R&D and its dedication to a vibrant innovation ecosystem have already produced tangible outcomes. With the CBHRD programme, India is poised to further solidify its standing as a centre for scientific breakthroughs and advanced technology development.
The programme goes beyond merely supporting researchers; it aims to ready Indian science for global leadership in the 21st century. By empowering young talent and incentivising excellence, India will hasten advancement in areas vital to economic progress, sustainable development, and technological innovation.
The Cabinet’s approval of the ₹2,277 crore CSIR Capacity Building and Human Resource Development Programme reflects the government’s ambition to create a world-class R&D environment. With systematic support for innovation, recognition of outstanding achievement, and encouragement of knowledge exchange, the scheme is set to shape the trajectory of Indian science while cultivating the next cohort of leaders in research and innovation.
