The Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment (HIMCOSTE) offers a scheme that provides partial travel assistance to bright young scientists and research scholars working in academic or research institutions in Himachal Pradesh. The support is aimed at enabling participation in National and International conferences, seminars, symposia, or workshops. Note that the scheme does not cover expenses for lodging, boarding, maintenance, registration fees, taxi fares, or other ancillary costs.
Benefits
- International Travel:
Up to a maximum of Rs. 60,000 or 60% of the total travel expenses (whichever is lower). - In-Country Travel:
Up to a maximum of Rs. 10,000 or 60% of the total travel expenses (whichever is lower). - The assistance is designed to partially offset travel costs while providing flexibility for both international and in-country journeys.
- The state council manages the disbursement of these funds as per the guidelines.
Eligibility
- Educational Qualification:
Applicants must have passed at least an M.Sc., B.E., B.Tech, MBBS, or an equivalent degree from a recognized University/Institute. - Age Limit:
The applicant’s age must not exceed 40 years on the date of commencement of the event. - Paper Acceptance:
The applicant must have a paper accepted for presentation at the event. The application should include the full paper, an abstract, the event schedule, and an acceptance letter from the organizer. - Previous Support:
Only those who have not received travel support under PATSS in the past three years are eligible. - Conference Reputation:
The event should have an international character and repute; applications for annual meetings of professional societies are not considered. - Publication Requirement:
The applicant must have published at least one paper in a refereed journal. - Application Forwarding:
The application must be forwarded through the proper channel by the Head of the Institution.
Application Process
- Obtain and Fill Application Form:
Download the PATSS application form and complete it with your bio-data. - Attach Essential Documents:
- One copy of the completed application form and bio-data.
- Degree certificate (as proof of eligibility).
- Date of birth certificate.
- A letter from another national or international agency committed to bearing part of the travel costs.
- Detailed letter of invitation from the conference organizers.
- Abstract of the paper to be presented.
- Certificate from the concerned airline indicating the cost of return airfare by economy class (via the shortest route).
- Check for Completeness:
Ensure that all required documents are attached; incomplete applications will not be entertained. - Submit the Application:
Forward the completed application and enclosures to HIMCOSTE at least one month prior to the event. - Selection Process:
HIMCOSTE reviews applications and notifies the selected candidates about one week before the event. - Commitment and Reimbursement:
If selected, you will receive a commitment letter. After the event, submit a detailed report and proof of travel (e.g., air ticket) within two months for reimbursement.
Documents Required
- Completed application form and bio-data
- Degree certificate
- Date of birth certificate
- Letter from another agency (committing to partial travel cost)
- Detailed invitation letter from the conference organizers
- Abstract of the paper to be presented
- Airline certificate indicating the cost of return airfare (economy class, shortest route)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who is eligible for PATSS?
Bright young scientists and research scholars working in academic or research institutions in Himachal Pradesh, meeting the educational and age requirements. - What is the maximum age limit?
The applicant must be 40 years or younger on the date the event commences. - Is paper acceptance mandatory?
Yes, your paper must be accepted for presentation, with all supporting documents included. - Can previous recipients apply?
Applicants who have received travel support under PATSS in the last three years are not eligible. - Are annual meetings of professional societies eligible?
No, the scheme does not consider applications for such events. - Is publication in a refereed journal required?
Yes, at least one publication in a refereed journal is necessary. - How should the application be forwarded?
The application must be forwarded by the Head of the Institution. - What is the deadline for submission?
Complete applications must reach HIMCOSTE at least one month before the event. - What must be submitted after the event?
One reprint of the research paper presented, along with a detailed report and proof of travel expenses.