Launched in 2017 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in association with the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE), the Abdul Kalam Technology Innovation National Fellowship recognizes, encourages, and supports translational research in engineering. Named after the late Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam—a visionary in Indian technology development and self-reliance—this fellowship aims to transform breakthrough research into viable, commercialized products, devices, components, or processes. The scheme is administered by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) and implemented by INAE, and it is exclusively for Indian nationals working in publicly funded institutions.
Scope
- Areas Covered:
All fields of engineering, innovation, and technology. - Focus:
Translational research that converts fundamental research outcomes into commercialized or deployable technologies. Deliverables may include:- Commercializable products or prototypes,
- Pilot-scale or field-trial worthy technologies,
- Patents (filed, sold, or commercialized),
- Working models or prototypes for demonstration and trials,
- Scientific publications that complement the translational work.
Duration of Fellowship
- Initial Tenure: 3 years
- Extension: Up to 2 additional years based on performance evaluation
- Maximum Duration: 5 years (non-extendable beyond this period)
Benefits
- Fellowship Grant:
- ₹25,000 per month (in addition to the recipient’s regular income)
- Research Grant:
- ₹15,00,000 per annum
- Overhead Support:
- ₹1,00,000 per annum provided to the host institution
- Taxation:
- The fellowship is taxable as per the Government of India’s income tax rules
Eligibility
- Applicant Profile:
- Indian nationals working in publicly funded institutions in India (or Overseas Citizens of India in permanent positions in publicly funded institutions)
- Applicants should be involved in the engineering profession and possess a proven track record in innovation or technology development
- Qualification:
- At minimum, a bachelor’s degree with a proven outstanding track record in research, innovation, or technology development
- Service Requirement:
- The applicant should have at least 5 years of service remaining in the parent organization at the time of the award
- Exclusivity:
- Applicants must not be holding any other fellowship; in case of selection, they must opt for only this fellowship
Application Process
Mode: Online
- Nomination:
- Nominations are accepted throughout the year.
- Eligible nominations must be forwarded by the Heads of Institutions/Organizations, Presidents or Fellows of National Science/Engineering Academies, as well as awardees of the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar or JC Bose awards.
- Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Submission:
- Nomination forms and supporting documents can be downloaded from INAE’s website.
- Complete the nomination form and submit it along with all required supporting documents/appendices by email to [email protected].
Documents Required
- Personal Documents:
- Identity proof (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
- Passport-size photograph
- Proof of age
- Professional Documents:
- Proof of employment (certificate or letter confirming current position)
- Educational qualification certificates
- Details of professional awards, recognitions, or fellowships
- Endorsement:
- An endorsement certificate from the Head of the Institution
- Financial Information:
- Bank details (account number, bank name, branch, IFSC code)
- Additional Documents:
- Any other documents as specified by the guidelines
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
What is the objective of the scheme?
To promote excellence in engineering, innovation, and technology development by supporting translational research that converts fundamental research outcomes into commercially viable technologies. -
Which agencies implement the scheme?
The fellowship is administered by SERB and implemented by INAE. -
Who is eligible to apply?
Indian nationals working in publicly funded institutions (or OCI in permanent positions) with a proven record in innovation and at least 5 years of service remaining. -
What areas are covered under this fellowship?
All areas of engineering and technology are eligible, with a focus on research leading to commercialization. -
What is the nature of support?
Fellows receive a monthly fellowship of ₹25,000, an annual research grant of ₹15 lakhs, and an overhead grant of ₹1 lakh per annum. -
Can the fellowship be continued after superannuation?
No, the fellowship is available only to those with a minimum of 5 years of service left in their parent organization. -
When can one apply for the fellowship?
Nominations are accepted throughout the year; refer to the official website for specific call notifications. -
Are self-nominations accepted?
No, nominations must be forwarded by authorized persons such as Heads of Institutions or recognized awardees. -
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Initially 3 years, extendable up to 2 additional years based on performance (maximum 5 years).