Remove age limit for scientific projects, reform guidelines for fellowship: AIRSA to Dharmendra Pradhan

NEW DELHI: All India Research Scholars Association (AIRSA) has reiterated the pressing concerns of the research community in India and urged the Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan for reforms in age limit on scientific project-based schemes, delay in fellowship, and a need for a routine recruitment for permanent positions in higher education.

The scholars association have been demanding for prompt actions to address the challenges faced by researchers in India. It recently wrote a letter addressing Abhay Karandikar, secretary of Department of Science and Technology (DST) regarding the delay in disbursement of fellowships for Women Scientist Scheme.

In the latest letter, the AIRSA has requested for an immediate intervention of Dharmendra Pradhan to resolve the issues hindering the growth of scientific research and academic development.

Age limit on scientific projects

Stating that research is a life long pursuit, the AIRSA opposed the current age restriction for participating in the scientific project-based scheme. “Arbitrary age limits prevent capable and experienced individuals from contributing to projects”, it said and urged the education ministry to revise the age limit for such schemes to promote inclusivity and encourage diverse participation.

Lack of medical facilities and insurance for scholars has often left researchers to financial constraints during emergencies. It suggested the ministry to advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive medical facilities and health insurance for all research fellows.

Also read DST scheme an ‘eyewash’; fellowships delayed months, project approval takes years, allege women scientists

Delayed fellowship, timely revision

Highlighting the absence of a timeline for fellowship revision, the research groups said this has led to irregular and delayed disbursement of fellowships directly affecting the productivity of scholars.

The association demanded for a guidelines to ensure timely research fellowship revision and said: “The fellowships often remain unchanged for years, failing to keep pace with inflation and rising costs of living. We request the Ministry to establish a fixed schedule for periodic fellowship revisions and ensure transparency in implementation.”

Moreover, scholars face numerous bureaucratic challenges in availing research schemes and fellowships, which leads to delays and inefficiencies. In this regard, the association recommended simplifying procedures and streamlining the approval process.

Further, it also demanded for a routine recruitment of permanent positions in higher educational institutions. “Young researchers are pressured to secure positions within restricted age limits, which undermines the spirit of academic freedom and exploration,” it added.