Fellowships to spur students into research

bangalore: with higher education becoming an expensive affair, parents and students should look out for a better alternative --fellowships. this is particularly so for those studying in government institutions and securing distinction in schools and colleges. such students can avail of the `kishore vaignanik protsahan yojana', a scheme initiated by the centre.the fellowship aims at encouraging students of basic sciences, engineering and medicine to take up research. ``our programme directs students towards research as a career and ensure the best scientific talent is available for r&d in the country. we show there are growth possibilities even in research as much as in it,'' says prof renuka ravindran, kvpy programme convener. these scholarships are provided up to pre-ph.d. level in science, engineering and medical streams. ``if a student takes up science after completing standard x, he is entitled for seven years of fellowship, till he finishes the masters degree.'' the department of science and technology funds the programme. the iisc administers it. the selection would be conducted by iit, mumbai, and indian council of medical research (icmr), new delhi. science students are selected through an aptitude test followed by an interview, and engineering and medical students through a project. ``though we get many students from icse and cbse schools, the response from state schools is poor due to lack of publicity,'' she says. the basic science fellowship is given to students who have completed standard x with a minimum aggregate of 75 per cent in science subjects in the board exam or its equivalent. they must also opt for science at plus-2 level. the scheme is open for those who have completed standard xii with an aggregate of 75 per cent in science subjects. students intending to pursue under-graduation or integrated m.sc. programme in chemistry, physics, mathematics, statistics, biological sciences or other related programmes are also entitled to it. students who complete one year of science undergraduate programme can also avail of the scheme. (for details, contact kvpy on 3601008 or email at kvpy@admin.iisc.ernet.in.)