ABVP flags delay in DST’s INSPIRE scholarship notification; calls for ‘timely disbursement of funds’

Students’ body Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has expressed concerns over “inordinate delay” in the notification of the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) scholarship scheme for the academic year 2025-26.

Usually, the Department of Science and Technology (DST)-sponsored INSPIRE programme notification is published between September and October; however, the delay in notification this year has created “uncertainty and anxiety” among students.

In addition to this, ABVP has condemned the persistent issues regarding the disbursal of scholarship funds under the INSPIRE scheme. Several students have reported significant delays in entitled funds, which are affecting their ability to meet academic expenses, continue research work, and sustain their education.

The INSPIRE programme is an initiative aiming to promote scientific temperament and nurture students in the field of science.

“Any lapse in its implementation not only demotivates students but also undermines the larger goal of strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem,” the official ABVP statement said.

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INSPIRE Scheme: ABVP demands DST’s immediate action

According to the official statement, ABVP has demanded the following immediate actions from the concerned authorities:

• Immediate release of INSPIRE Scholarship and Fellowship notification for the academic year 2025-26.
• On-time disbursement of all pending and future scholarship instalments.
• Announcement of the timeline for both notification and fund release.
• Creation of a grievance redressal mechanism to address students’ concerns.

ABVP’s national general secretary Virendra Singh Solanki urged the department to take corrective measures and said: “ABVP stands with the student community and urges the DST to take swift corrective measures. The future of thousands of aspiring scientists cannot be compromised due to administrative delays. ABVP will continue to raise this issue at all appropriate forums until justice is ensured for every deserving student.”