The “Access to Knowledge for Technology Development and Dissemination (A2K+)” scheme is designed to support research and studies related to science, technology, and innovation. The program facilitates technology dissemination to industries, research institutions, academia, SIROs (Scientific & Industrial Research Organizations), consultants, industry associations, techno-entrepreneurs, and government departments.
This scheme does not support general infrastructure development but provides funding for research studies, technology development, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Supported Programs Under A2K+
The A2K+ initiative consists of the following major programs:
- A2K+ Studies – Support for industrial technology-related studies.
- A2K+ Events – Support for organizing national and international conferences and exhibitions.
- Technology Development & Utilization Programme for Women.
- Technology Development & Demonstration Programme (TDDP).
Objectives of A2K+ Studies
- To support studies on emerging technology areas that benefit industry, academia, and policymakers.
- To analyze and document technological advancements and their market potential.
- To prepare status reports on publicly funded research to facilitate commercialization and translation from research to market.
Benefits
The financial support under this scheme is allocated towards the following:
Manpower costs for conducting research studies.
Travel expenses for networking, surveys, stakeholder meetings, and expert consultations (International travel is NOT permissible).
Consultation fees for industry experts and resource persons.
Contingency & consumable costs, including research equipment needed for the study.
Overhead charges of 15% for the host institution.
Note:
- No funding for general-purpose infrastructure development.
- Fixed manpower expenses as per DSIR norms.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
Industry Associations, including Sectoral Industry Associations, Export Promotion Councils, and Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Government Departments (both Central & State) and Technical Consultancy Organizations.
National R&D Institutions and Scientific & Industrial Research Organizations (SIROs) recognized by DSIR.
Universities & Colleges (approved by UGC/AICTE).
Institutions with a distinct legal entity (as per Rule 228 of GFR 2017).
Eligible Research Topics for 2023
Proposals should focus on technology-driven research areas, including:
Development of building materials from waste (PVC waste, municipal waste, e-waste, etc.).
Indigenous development of membranes for desalination and sewage treatment.
Energy-efficient building materials and designs.
Development of ICT tools for children with special needs.
Cost-effective waste management technologies (e.g., sensor-based waste bins).
Note: Research areas may change each year as per DSIR guidelines.
Application Process
Offline Submission Only
Step 1: Download the application form from the DSIR website.
Step 2: Prepare five (5) hard copies of the proposal.
Step 3: Email one (1) soft copy of the proposal (in MS Word format, NOT PDF) to [email protected].
Step 4: Mail the hard copies to:
Dr. Sujata Chaklanobis
Head (A2K+), Department of Scientific & Industrial Research
Ministry of Science & Technology
Technology Bhawan, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110 016
Important: Superscribe the envelope with “CONFIDENTIAL, A2K+ Studies”.
Documents Required
For Organizations:
Details of the Organization (name, establishment year, employee count).
Proof of Legal Status.
Address Proof.
Detailed Item-Wise Budget Estimates.
Collaboration Details with other organizations (if applicable).
For Principal Investigator (PI) & Co-PI:
Aadhaar Card & Identity Proof.
Employment Proof from the Host Institution.
Work Experience Certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the full name of the A2K+ scheme?
A: “Access to Knowledge for Technology Development and Dissemination (A2K+)”.
Q: What are the objectives of this scheme?
A: To support technology-based studies, enhance research collaborations, and create status reports on industrial technology.
Q: What types of projects are supported?
A: Research on waste management, desalination, ICT tools, building materials, and smart cities technologies.
Q: How much is provided as overhead charges?
A: 15% of the total project cost.
Q: Is international travel allowed under the scheme?
A: No, international travel is not permitted.
Q: What consumables are eligible for funding?
A: Research-related consumables and essential study equipment.
Q: Do manpower expenses change if fellowship rates increase?
A: No, DSIR support for manpower is fixed.
Q: Can funding be used to build research infrastructure?
A: No, funding cannot be used for infrastructure development.
Q: Can private colleges apply?
A: Yes, UGC and AICTE-approved colleges are eligible.
Q: How many copies of the proposal need to be submitted?
A: Five (5) hard copies and one (1) soft copy via email.
Q: What should be written on the envelope when submitting the application?
A: “CONFIDENTIAL, A2K+ Studies”.
Sources & References
General Guidelines for Funding Support
Call for Proposals
DSIR Official Website