Women Biotech Scientists Seek Crucial Research Funding

Quick Summary

• The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under India’s Ministry of Science and Technology, has been running the Biocare programme since 2011.
• The initiative supports unemployed female scientists with extramural research funding and career advancement opportunities.
• Researchers selected for the programme are eligible for a ₹60 lakh grant over three years, including a salary component of ₹75,000 per month.
• Despite being selected in March 2025, none of the 75 chosen women scientists have yet received their funds or salaries to commence their research projects.
• A condition of the scheme prevents beneficiaries from availing other research funds, leaving some scientists stranded after they gave up international post-doctoral opportunities.
• Scientists claim DBT has not responded to inquiries about delays in fund release; officials cite procedural changes related to routing funds thru India’s Treasury Single Account system as the reason for tardiness.
• Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of DBT, mentioned that funds would be released “in the next ten days.”
• Similar delays have been reported with another science scholarship scheme-the INSPIRE fellowships.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The delay in fund disbursal under India’s Biocare programme highlights operational hurdles within government schemes aimed at fostering scientific talent and gender inclusivity. Initiatives like these are critical for enabling women researchers to contribute meaningfully to India’s innovation landscape. Though, procedural inefficiencies risk eroding trust among beneficiaries and diminishing programme impact.

While transitioning to systems like Treasury Single Accounts may improve transparency in fund management over time, immediate measures must be taken to address current bottlenecks. Unanswered queries and delayed support can discourage future participation from qualified candidates who rely on stable funding frameworks.

India’s efforts toward empowering female participation in STEM globally stand out positively; however, execution must match intent if scientific progress and careers are not stalled. Timely resolution will restore confidence while ensuring continued productivity across funded programs.

Read more: The Hindu