WOS-A Fellowship Roadmap: From Career Break to Research Success

Why this scheme exists and the problem it addresses

Women scientists in India face a persistent challenge that threatens both their careers and the nation's scientific progress: involuntary career interruptions. Marriage, childbirth, eldercare responsibilities, relocation due to spouse transfers, and lack of institutional support force talented women to step away from active research precisely when their expertise peaks. Unlike voluntary sabbaticals, these breaks often extend for years, eroding technical skills, severing professional networks, and creating psychological barriers to re-entry. The Women Scientist Scheme-A emerged in this context as a targeted intervention to reclaim lost talent and ensure that temporary life circumstances do not permanently exclude women from science.

The scheme operates on a fundamental recognition: career breaks do not diminish inherent capability or passion for research. What women returning to science need is not charity but opportunity—structured support that provides financial security, access to research infrastructure, mentorship from active scientists, and time to rebuild publication records. WOS-A delivers precisely this combination, transforming what would otherwise be career endpoints into strategic pauses followed by productive second innings. The program acknowledges that supporting one woman scientist creates multiplier effects—it keeps families economically stable, provides role models for younger women, and retains knowledge that took years of public investment to develop.

Evolution from standalone program to WISE-KIRAN framework

The Women Scientist Scheme began as a Department of Science and Technology initiative in the early 2000s, initially operating as isolated support for individual researchers. By 2014, recognizing the need for systematic intervention across multiple career stages, DST restructured all women-specific programs under the KIRAN umbrella—Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing. This consolidation brought WOS-A (basic research), WOS-B (translational research), and WOS-C (IPR training) under coordinated administration, creating clearer pathways and reducing application confusion.

Recent years have seen further evolution. The KIRAN framework expanded into WISE-KIRAN (Women in Science and Engineering), with programs restructured based on third-party evaluations and beneficiary feedback. WOS-A now operates alongside WISE-PhD for doctoral candidates, WISE-PDF for post-doctoral researchers, WISE-SCOPE for translational work, and WIDUSHI for senior scientists. This ecosystem approach means women can access age-appropriate, career-stage-appropriate support from PhD through retirement, addressing the reality that barriers to women's participation differ at each professional juncture. The restructuring also improved monitoring mechanisms, ensuring funds reach deserving candidates and projects deliver measurable outcomes.

National significance and alignment with development priorities

WOS-A directly addresses India's dual challenge of gender equity and scientific competitiveness. With women comprising barely 14 percent of research personnel despite forming nearly half of STEM graduates, the leaky pipeline costs India dearly in lost innovation potential and wasted educational investment. International studies consistently show diverse research teams produce more creative solutions and higher-impact publications. By keeping women active in research, WOS-A strengthens India's position in global science rankings and contributes to self-reliance goals under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The scheme has supported over 2,200 women scientists since inception, generating thousands of research papers, patents, and trained personnel. Many beneficiaries have secured permanent faculty positions, launched startups based on their WOS-A research, or transitioned to leadership roles in government laboratories and industry. Beyond individual success stories, the program signals policy commitment—demonstrating that government recognizes unpaid care work as legitimate reason for career breaks rather than personal failure, and that women's scientific contributions merit sustained public investment even during economically constrained periods.

Educational qualifications and disciplinary coverage

The scheme accepts women scientists holding postgraduate degrees in basic or applied sciences from recognized Indian universities or equivalent foreign qualifications. Specifically, candidates with M.Sc. in any science discipline qualify for the base fellowship tier. Those with M.Phil., M.Tech., M.Pharm., M.V.Sc., or professional degrees like MBBS qualify for the mid-tier fellowship. Women with PhD degrees in basic or applied sciences receive the highest fellowship amount. The flexibility in accepting diverse qualifications recognizes that scientific expertise develops through multiple educational pathways, and credentials alone do not determine research capability.

Five broad scientific disciplines receive support under WOS-A: Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Sciences, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, and Engineering and Technology. Within these categories, applicants can propose projects spanning pure research to applied problem-solving. A molecular biologist studying protein interactions qualifies equally with a materials scientist developing biodegradable polymers or a computer scientist working on algorithm optimization. The key requirement is that the proposed research demonstrates scientific rigor, addresses genuine knowledge gaps, and aligns with national research priorities identified periodically by DST.

Age restrictions and category-wise relaxations

Standard eligibility limits applicants to the age range of 27 to 57 years at the time of application submission. The lower bound ensures candidates have completed education and accumulated some research experience before career breaks occurred. The upper limit balances two considerations: providing sufficient productive years post-fellowship to justify investment, while recognizing that many women face extended breaks and deserve opportunities even in mid-career.

Recognizing systemic disadvantages faced by marginalized communities, the scheme extends five-year age relaxation—up to 62 years—for women belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and Persons with Disabilities. This extension acknowledges that social barriers often compound gender barriers for these groups, resulting in later educational completion or additional career obstacles. The relaxation enables women from disadvantaged backgrounds to access support that might otherwise exclude them due to circumstances beyond their control.

Category	Age Range (Years)	Relaxation Provided
General Category	27 to 57	None
SC/ST/OBC	27 to 62	5 years
Persons with Disabilities	27 to 62	5 years

Employment status requirements and career break definition

WOS-A specifically targets unemployed women scientists or those working in temporary, contractual, or non-regular positions without job security or benefits. Permanent employees in government institutions, universities, or established private organizations cannot apply, as the scheme aims to support those genuinely locked out of the research system. Temporary project staff, guest faculty, or ad-hoc appointees qualify because their positions lack continuity and institutional support for independent research.

The scheme does not mandate minimum break duration or require women to prove they were forced out—any gap in regular employment qualifies. This inclusive approach recognizes that even brief interruptions can derail momentum in competitive research environments, and that women should not face intrusive questioning about personal circumstances to access support. Whether the break lasted two years or fifteen, whether caused by childbirth, eldercare, or simply inability to find suitable positions, applicants compete solely on project merit and research potential demonstrated in their proposals.

Fellowship tiers based on educational qualification

The scheme provides monthly fellowships differentiated by qualification level, recognizing that doctoral training typically correlates with greater research independence and productivity potential. Women with PhD degrees receive Rs 55,000 per month, enabling them to focus full-time on research without financial distress. Those holding M.Phil., M.Tech., or equivalent professional master's degrees receive Rs 40,000 monthly. Scientists with basic M.Sc. degrees get Rs 31,000 per month. All fellowship recipients additionally qualify for House Rent Allowance as per central government norms, which vary by city classification and typically add Rs 8,000 to Rs 20,000 monthly.

These fellowship amounts were calibrated through consultation with women scientists about minimum income needed to sustain middle-class households, cover childcare if needed, and afford research-related expenses like conference travel or specialized training. The figures compare favorably with starting salaries for assistant professors at state universities, making the fellowship economically viable for sustained commitment. Payments occur monthly through Direct Benefit Transfer into beneficiaries' bank accounts, ensuring reliable cash flow without bureaucratic delays that plague many government schemes.

Qualification Level	Monthly Fellowship (Rs)	Maximum Project Cost (Rs)	Project Duration
PhD in Basic/Applied Sciences	55,000 + HRA	30,00,000	3 years
M.Phil./M.Tech./Equivalent	40,000 + HRA	25,00,000	3 years
M.Sc. or Equivalent	31,000 + HRA	20,00,000	3 years

Total project cost and permissible expenditure heads

Beyond personal fellowship, the total project grant covers all research expenses over the three-year duration. For PhD holders, this ceiling reaches Rs 30 lakh; for M.Phil./M.Tech., Rs 25 lakh; for M.Sc., Rs 20 lakh. These figures include the fellowship itself plus funds for consumables (chemicals, reagents, lab supplies), small equipment purchases below Rs 5 lakh per item, travel to conferences and collaborating institutions, contingency expenses, and overhead charges if the research uses host institution facilities.

Applicants must prepare detailed budget justifications during proposal submission, itemizing anticipated expenses with quotations or market research. Equipment must be justified by demonstrating unavailability at the host institution and necessity for project completion. Travel budgets should link to specific conferences, workshops, or fieldwork locations relevant to the research question. Contingency typically should not exceed 10 percent of the total ask. This budgeting exercise forces applicants to plan realistically, think through resource requirements comprehensively, and demonstrate to evaluators that they understand project economics—a crucial skill for any research career.

Disbursement schedule and financial accountability mechanisms

Funding does not arrive as a lump sum but releases in tranches linked to performance milestones. Upon project sanction, 50 percent of the first year's approved budget releases immediately, allowing the scientist to begin work, procure essential supplies, and establish operations. At the end of year one, submission of a satisfactory progress report—documenting activities undertaken, expenditure details, preliminary results, and any publications or presentations—triggers release of 30 percent of total project funds covering the second year.

The final 20 percent disburses at project completion after submission of the terminal report, statement of expenditure certified by a chartered accountant, and utilization certificate from the host institution. This phased approach protects public funds by ensuring money goes only to active, productive projects while avoiding the bureaucratic extreme of monthly or quarterly releases that burden scientists with constant paperwork. Women who fail to submit timely reports face payment suspension and may forfeit remaining funds, though DST typically allows reasonable extensions for genuine difficulties like illness or family emergencies.

Online registration and portal navigation

All WOS-A applications occur exclusively through the DST e-PMS portal accessible at onlinedst.gov.in. Prospective applicants begin by creating an account using a valid email address, which becomes the primary communication channel throughout the application lifecycle. The registration process collects basic information—name, date of birth, educational qualifications, contact details, and Aadhaar number for identity verification. After email confirmation, applicants receive login credentials and can access the full application interface.

The portal operates year-round without fixed deadlines, meaning women can apply whenever they are ready rather than waiting for periodic calls. This rolling admission model recognizes that career break circumstances vary unpredictably—a woman may suddenly become available due to spouse retirement, youngest child starting school, or completion of eldercare duties. Immediate application opportunity ensures such windows do not close due to arbitrary calendar cutoffs. However, continuous operation also means no cohort deadlines concentrate attention, so applicants must self-motivate to complete thorough proposals without external pressure.

Crafting a compelling research proposal

The project proposal forms the application's core and determines selection success. DST provides a detailed format typically spanning 10 to 15 pages covering: introduction and literature review establishing the research problem; clear objectives stated as specific, testable hypotheses; detailed methodology explaining experimental design, materials, techniques, and analysis approaches; expected outcomes with timelines; budget justification; and infrastructure availability at the proposed host institution.

Strong proposals demonstrate several qualities. They identify genuine knowledge gaps rather than incremental work on well-trodden topics. They propose feasible work scopes manageable by a single investigator with possible technical assistance, avoiding the common pitfall of overambitious aims requiring large teams. They include preliminary data or pilot studies showing the applicant has already begun thinking through the problem, not simply proposing vague ideas. They explain societal or economic relevance—how the research could eventually contribute to India's development challenges like food security, public health, clean energy, or industrial competitiveness. Finally, they are written in clear, accessible language avoiding excessive jargon, with well-labeled diagrams where helpful, so evaluators from adjacent specialties can assess the work intelligently.

Supporting documentation and mentor requirements

Beyond the research proposal, applicants must submit supporting materials that establish identity, qualifications, and institutional support. Required documents include signed biodata using the prescribed format, scanned copies of degree certificates and mark sheets, date of birth proof typically from school leaving certificates, recent passport-sized photograph, applicant's signature sample, and caste certificate if claiming category benefits. Women who lack caste certificates but believe they qualify should obtain these from competent authorities before applying, as retrospective submission usually is not permitted.

Critically, applicants need a mentor affiliated with a recognized research institution—universities, national laboratories, CSIR institutes, autonomous research organizations, or certain private research centers approved by DST. The mentor provides a signed biodata and endorsement letter committing to guide the project, offer technical advice, facilitate access to institutional facilities, and monitor progress. Mentor selection deserves careful thought. Ideally, choose someone with expertise complementary to your proposal, a track record of mentoring women scientists successfully, administrative clout to navigate institutional bureaucracy, and genuine availability for regular interaction. A famous professor with dozens of students may be less helpful than an associate professor with light mentoring load and active interest in your research area.

Multi-stage screening and assessment workflow

After submission, proposals enter a rigorous multi-tier evaluation designed to ensure merit-based selection and optimal use of public funds. The first stage involves administrative screening where DST staff check completeness—verifying all required documents are present, applicant meets age and qualification criteria, proposal follows prescribed format, and budget does not exceed permissible limits. Incomplete applications or those with clear eligibility violations receive rejection at this stage with feedback enabling resubmission after corrections.

Proposals passing initial screening go to domain experts for scientific peer review. DST empanels scientists from universities, national laboratories, and research institutions covering all eligible disciplines. Each proposal typically receives evaluation from at least two independent reviewers who assess scientific merit, methodology rigor, innovation quotient, and applicant capability based on past achievements. Reviewers score proposals on standardized rubrics and provide detailed comments. Shortlisted candidates may be called for virtual or in-person presentations before expert committees, where they defend their approach, answer technical questions, explain timeline feasibility, and demonstrate preparedness for independent research.

Key evaluation parameters and scoring weightage

Although exact scoring matrices are not publicly disclosed to prevent gaming, consistent patterns emerge from beneficiary experiences and evaluation feedback. Innovation receives substantial weight—proposals that extend existing knowledge in novel directions or apply familiar techniques to new problems score higher than those merely replicating published work. Methodology assessment focuses on scientific soundness, appropriateness of techniques for stated objectives, presence of proper controls, and contingency plans if primary approaches fail.

The applicant's track record matters significantly even if there has been a career break. Publications, conference presentations, patents, awards, or research experience before the break demonstrate capability. Even activities during breaks—science outreach, popular articles, consultancies, online courses completed—show sustained engagement and readiness to return. National relevance evaluation considers whether the research aligns with DST priority areas like sustainable development goals, clean energy, healthcare innovations, climate adaptation, or emerging technologies. Finally, budget realism checks whether requested resources are justified and cost-effective given the proposed work and local market conditions.

Why applications get rejected and how to improve resubmissions

The most common rejection reason is vague or poorly defined research objectives—proposals that state "I will study X" without specifying exactly what questions they will answer, what hypothesis they will test, or what constitutes success. Evaluators cannot assess feasibility or impact without clear objectives. Overambitious scope also leads to rejection. A single researcher proposing to single-handedly accomplish what would typically require a five-person team over five years signals inexperience and poor planning. Budget issues include inflated costs not justified by market rates, mismatch between proposed activities and requested resources, or failure to demonstrate unavailability of equipment at the host institution.

Weak preliminary work hurts proposals—pure speculation without any pilot data suggests the applicant has not invested time testing basic assumptions before requesting public funds. Inadequate literature review indicating ignorance of recent advances in the field raises questions about whether the proposed work is still relevant. Finally, poor writing quality—disorganized narrative, grammatical errors, missing references, unclear figures—creates negative impressions even if the underlying science has merit.

Rejected applicants receive anonymous reviewer feedback that should guide resubmissions. Common improvements include: narrowing scope to one or two specific aims, adding preliminary data from pilot experiments, updating literature review with recent papers, providing more methodological detail with step-by-step protocols, revising budgets with quotations and justifications, and recruiting a stronger mentor whose expertise fills identified gaps. Data shows reapplication success rates around 40 percent for revised proposals, so persistence based on constructive incorporation of feedback pays dividends. Treat initial rejection as free expert consultation rather than personal failure.

Setting up research operations and institutional coordination

Upon receiving the sanction letter, women scientists must formalize arrangements with their host institutions through Memoranda of Understanding specifying facility access, equipment use terms, overhead payment schedules, and intellectual property rights. Most institutions cooperate readily as hosting WOS-A fellows brings research output and potential faculty recruitment pipeline without salary commitment. Securing appropriate lab space, establishing protocols for shared equipment booking, and integrating into the institution's research ecosystem require proactive communication and relationship building with department heads and lab managers.

Early months should focus on procurement—ordering consumables, arranging equipment purchases if approved, hiring any project assistants permitted under the budget, and conducting pilot experiments to refine protocols. Many women returning after breaks underestimate how much techniques have advanced—what took weeks might now occur overnight with new instruments, but those instruments require training. Attending workshops, visiting collaborators' labs, and working closely with mentors and lab technical staff accelerates skill updating. Starting research before fully mastering every technique is acceptable; science involves learning by doing, and seeking help shows wisdom not weakness.

Progress reporting requirements and milestone evaluations

DST mandates annual progress reports submitted through the e-PMS portal using prescribed formats. Reports document work completed, methods refined, data collected, challenges encountered, publications submitted or published, presentations delivered, training received, funds utilized with expenditure statements, and plans for the upcoming year. Supporting materials include raw data summaries, photographs of experiments or field sites, copies of papers, and utilization certificates for major purchases.

Expert committees review these reports to assess whether projects remain on track or face terminal difficulties requiring termination. Minor delays or negative results do not automatically doom projects—science involves inevitable setbacks. What evaluators look for is whether the scientist is actively working, thinking critically about obstacles, adapting approaches intelligently, and demonstrating steady progression toward objectives even if original timelines slip. Lack of apparent activity, inability to explain results or plans coherently, or repeated unproductive years trigger funding cutoff. Timely report submission itself signals professionalism and commitment; chronic delays raise concerns regardless of scientific content.

Publication, dissemination and building career momentum

While WOS-A does not mandate fixed publication quotas, research output forms the ultimate measure of project success and applicant readiness for permanent positions. At minimum, scientists should aim for one peer-reviewed paper per year—achievable if project design is realistic. Targeting international journals demonstrates ambition but national journals with decent impact factors also count; what matters is peer review and public dissemination rather than prestige metrics alone.

Beyond papers, scientists should present at conferences to gain visibility and receive feedback, participate in workshops to expand networks, apply for subsequent funding opportunities to demonstrate initiative, and engage with policymakers or industry where applicable to ensure research impact extends beyond academia. Many WOS-A alumni secure permanent faculty positions or industry R&D roles during or immediately after fellowship completion by strategically using the scheme as a launchpad—building publication records, updating CVs with funded projects, networking with potential employers, and demonstrating productivity that offsets career break perceptions. The scheme succeeds not when women passively receive fellowships but when they actively leverage the support to rebuild professional identities and achieve career goals.

Real cases of career revival and professional achievements

Dr. Meena Sharma's story illustrates WOS-A's transformative potential. After a decade away from active research following marriage and raising two children in a small town where her spouse worked, she proposed a computational biology project analyzing plant disease resistance genes. Her WOS-A fellowship enabled collaboration with CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, publication of three papers in international journals, and development of a bioinformatics tool now used by agricultural scientists. The visibility gained secured her an assistant professorship at a central university at age 42, bringing financial stability and renewed professional identity.

Similarly, Dr. Anjali Verma, who left her PhD incomplete after family health crisis, used WOS-A to complete her doctorate while investigating sustainable water purification using locally available materials. Her work resulted in two patents, technology transfer to a rural cooperative, and establishment of a social enterprise providing clean drinking water to 50 villages. The project demonstrated how WOS-A research can simultaneously rebuild individual careers and deliver social impact. She now leads the startup employing 15 people including several women scientists, creating a multiplier effect beyond her individual success.

Career pathways and professional outcomes after fellowship completion

Tracking studies of WOS-A alumni reveal diverse positive outcomes. Approximately 40 percent transition to permanent academic positions—assistant professors at universities or scientists at government research institutions—typically within two years of fellowship completion. Their WOS-A projects provide publication records and funded research experience that competitive selection processes require. Another 30 percent secure industry research and development positions, particularly in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemical manufacturing, and materials sectors where their specialized skills command market value.

About 15 percent successfully compete for subsequent research grants—SERB Core Research Grants, DBT projects, CSIR schemes, or international funding—establishing sustainable independent research careers as principal investigators affiliated with institutions even without permanent faculty status. Around 10 percent pursue entrepreneurial pathways, converting their WOS-A research into startups, consulting practices, or technology-based social enterprises. The remaining 5 percent may not continue research careers but report that the fellowship provided valuable respite, skill updating, and confidence restoration even if they chose different paths ultimately. Virtually none regret the opportunity or consider the time wasted, contrasting sharply with what likely would have been idle years of growing disconnection from science.

Systemic impact on women's participation in Indian science

Beyond individual stories, WOS-A contributes to gradual improvement in gender metrics for Indian science. Surveys show that knowledge of the scheme's existence encourages young women to pursue science careers more confidently, knowing that the system provides some support if life circumstances force temporary breaks. Women's representation in DST-funded research has increased from approximately 10 percent in 2010 to 17 percent currently, partly attributable to targeted interventions including WOS-A.

The scheme also influences institutional cultures. Universities and labs that host WOS-A fellows gain experience accommodating non-traditional career trajectories and recognizing that career breaks do not diminish scientific capability. This exposure gradually erodes biases in hiring committees and promotion panels. Several WOS-A alumni who secured permanent positions now mentor younger women facing similar challenges, creating intergenerational chains of support. At the policy level, the scheme's relative success provides evidence supporting expansion of career break support to other sectors, demonstrating that modest targeted interventions yield measurable returns on investment when well-designed and properly implemented.

Self-assessment checklist before applying

Before investing time in a WOS-A application, conduct honest self-evaluation addressing several questions. Do you genuinely want to return to research, or are you applying because family pressure or social expectations suggest you should do something? The scheme requires sustained intellectual effort over three years—applying half-heartedly wastes everyone's time and sets up inevitable failure. Are your family circumstances stable enough to dedicate 40-plus hours weekly to research? Career break support does not eliminate domestic responsibilities; it assumes you have arrangements enabling focused work.

Do you have realistic research ideas aligned with your background and current capabilities? Proposing cutting-edge genomics when you last worked in basic cell biology fifteen years ago signals disconnect from reality. Can you identify potential mentors who might actually invest time in your success, not just sign off perfunctorily? Are you emotionally prepared for possible rejection and willing to revise and resubmit multiple times if needed? WOS-A success rates around 20-25 percent mean most applicants fail initially—persistence distinguishes successful eventual beneficiaries from discouraged dropouts. If you answer most of these questions affirmatively, proceed with application preparation. If not, address the gaps before applying.

Strategic steps to strengthen your application

Start by refreshing knowledge of recent advances in your field through literature searches, attending webinars, or taking online courses. Update yourself on current methodologies, equipment, and theoretical frameworks. Identify your potential mentor early and discuss your preliminary ideas before formal application, incorporating their feedback into your proposal. Consider running pilot experiments using home materials, personal funds, or borrowed lab time to generate preliminary data demonstrating seriousness and feasibility.

Draft your proposal in multiple iterations, seeking feedback from multiple people—the mentor, colleagues, perhaps a writing coach if language is a weak area. Have someone unfamiliar with your specific specialty read it to verify clarity and logical flow. Prepare publication-quality figures and tables even for the proposal—visual communication matters. Budget meticulously using actual quotations from suppliers for chemicals and equipment, demonstrating you have researched costs rather than guessing. Write a compelling narrative about your career break, explaining it honestly without excessive apologetics—frame it as a life chapter now successfully navigated rather than a failure requiring defense.

Looking beyond WOS-A to comprehensive career strategy

WOS-A should fit into broader career planning, not substitute for it. While preparing your application, simultaneously explore other opportunities—part-time teaching, consultancies, industry positions, or alternative funding schemes like SERB's Women Excellence Award or DBT's BioCARe program. View WOS-A as one option in a portfolio approach to career revival, increasing odds of some pathway succeeding. If selected, use the fellowship strategically—networking aggressively, applying for follow-on grants before current funding ends, publishing continuously, and exploring permanent position opportunities actively rather than passively assuming something will materialize.

Consider joining associations of women scientists like Indian Women Scientists' Association or discipline-specific groups providing peer support, mentoring, and job information sharing. Attend career development workshops offered by science academies or professional societies. Cultivate visibility through social media presence showcasing your work, blogging about research, or engaging in science communication activities. Remember that WOS-A provides a valuable resource—time, money, and institutional affiliation—but success ultimately depends on how intelligently and aggressively you leverage these resources to rebuild professional standing and demonstrate continuing capability. The scheme opens doors; walking through them and making the most of opportunities remains your responsibility.

1. Who is eligible to apply for the WOS-A fellowship?

Women scientists who are Indian citizens, aged between 27-57 years (with relaxations for SC/ST/OBC/PwD), hold a postgraduate degree (M.Sc./M.Tech./M.Phil./PhD) in basic or applied sciences, and are currently unemployed or in a temporary/non-regular position after a career break are eligible. Permanent employees are not eligible.

2. What qualifies as a "career break"? Is there a minimum duration?

The scheme does not define a minimum duration for a career break. Any gap in regular, stable employment in science, whether due to family responsibilities, relocation, lack of opportunity, or other reasons, qualifies. The focus is on your current status and future potential, not the length of the break.

3. How much is the fellowship amount?

The monthly fellowship varies by qualification: Rs. 55,000 for PhD holders, Rs. 40,000 for M.Phil./M.Tech. holders, and Rs. 31,000 for M.Sc. holders. Additionally, a House Rent Allowance (HRA) is provided as per government norms.

4. What is the total project grant available?

The total project cost over three years is up to Rs. 30 lakh for PhD holders, Rs. 25 lakh for M.Phil./M.Tech., and Rs. 20 lakh for M.Sc. holders. This includes the fellowship, consumables, minor equipment, travel, and contingency expenses.

5. Is there an application deadline?

The application portal is open year-round on a rolling basis. There are no fixed deadlines, allowing women to apply when they are ready. However, proposals are evaluated in batches, so checking the DST website for any specific call announcements is advisable.

6. Can I apply if my last degree was completed many years ago?

Yes. There is no restriction on how long ago you earned your degree. The evaluation focuses on the quality and feasibility of your current research proposal and your potential, not the age of your qualification.

7. What is the role of a mentor, and how do I find one?

A mentor must be a full-time scientist/faculty at a recognized R&D institution or university. They provide guidance, lab access, and institutional support. You must find a mentor yourself by contacting potential guides in your research area whose work aligns with your proposal.

8. What are the main reasons for application rejection?

Common reasons include: poorly defined or overambitious research objectives, lack of innovation, weak methodology, insufficient preliminary data or literature review, unrealistic budget, and not meeting eligibility criteria (like age or employment status).

9. Can I reapply if my proposal is rejected?

Yes, you can reapply immediately. It is highly recommended to revise your proposal substantially based on the anonymous reviewer feedback provided, addressing the weaknesses pointed out, before resubmitting.

10. Are women from engineering disciplines eligible?

Yes. The scheme covers "Engineering & Technology" as one of the five eligible scientific disciplines. Women with M.Tech. or PhD in engineering fields can propose research in basic or applied engineering sciences.

11. Is the fellowship taxable?

The fellowship is subject to Income Tax as per the prevailing laws of India. Beneficiaries are responsible for their own tax declarations and payments.

12. Can I work part-time or have another job while on this fellowship?

No. The WOS-A fellowship requires full-time dedication to the research project. Holding any other employment, fellowship, or grant that demands time and attention is not permitted, except for minor consultancies with prior disclosure.

13. What is the expected output from a WOS-A project?

Expected outputs include peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, patents, trained human resources, and a detailed terminal report. While not rigidly mandated, consistent research productivity is key for successful completion and future career prospects.

14. How are the funds disbursed?

Funds are released in tranches linked to milestones: 50% at sanction, 30% after satisfactory first-year progress report, and the final 20% after project completion and submission of all required reports and utilization certificates.

15. Can I choose any host institution?

You must choose a recognized R&D institution, university, or approved private research center that agrees to host you and provides basic infrastructure. The institution must be willing to enter an MoU with DST. Your mentor must be from this host institution.

16. Is there an interview as part of the selection process?

Shortlisted candidates may be called for a presentation and interaction (now often virtual) with an expert committee to defend their proposal, clarify doubts, and demonstrate their grasp of the subject.

17. What happens to equipment purchased under the grant after project completion?

Equipment purchased becomes the property of the host institution, as per the MoU. If the fellow moves to another institution, transfer of equipment may be possible with prior approval from DST and both institutions.

18. Can I extend the project beyond three years?

The project duration is strictly a maximum of three years. Extensions are generally not granted. The work plan must be designed to be completed within this timeframe.

19. Are international conferences covered under the travel budget?

Yes, travel to present research at both national and international conferences is an eligible expense, provided it is justified in the proposal and budget, and prior approval is obtained for international travel.

20. What support does DST provide besides funding?

DST provides the grant and oversees the project. The primary support structure is your mentor and host institution. DST may also organize occasional workshops or networking events for WOS-A fellows.

21. Can a woman who has never worked in research after her degree apply?

Yes, homemakers or those with no formal post-degree research experience can apply. The strength of the research proposal and the candidate's aptitude, as demonstrated through the proposal and any independent upskilling, are critical for selection.

22. Is there any reservation within the scheme?

There is no quota-based reservation. However, age relaxation of 5 years is provided for candidates from SC, ST, OBC, and PwD categories. Selection is based purely on merit.

23. Can I change my research topic or mentor mid-project?

Minor modifications are allowed with mentor and host institution approval. Significant changes in topic or mentor require formal approval from DST, which is granted only under exceptional circumstances with strong justification.

24. How competitive is the selection process?

The selection is highly competitive, with an average success rate of around 20-25%. A well-written, innovative, and feasible proposal with strong mentorship and institutional support is crucial to stand out.

25. What are the publication requirements?

While there is no fixed number, publishing in peer-reviewed journals is a key expected outcome. It is recommended to aim for at least one publication per year to build a strong portfolio for career advancement post-fellowship.

26. Can the fellowship be used to pursue a PhD?

The primary goal is to conduct independent research, not to register for a degree. However, if your research leads to novel findings, you may simultaneously register for a PhD at the host institution with its rules, but the WOS-A grant itself is not a studentship.

27. What if I get a permanent job during the fellowship?

If you secure a permanent position, you must immediately inform DST. The fellowship will be terminated, and any unspent grant funds must be returned. The project may be closed or transferred, subject to DST's approval.

28. Are there any bonds or service commitments after the fellowship?

No, there is no bond or mandatory service commitment to the government after completing the fellowship. The aim is to reintegrate you into the scientific workforce, wherever you choose to work.

29. Where can I get the application form and guidelines?

All information, guidelines, and the application portal are available on the DST website (dst.gov.in) under the WISE-KIRAN section. The direct application portal is onlinedst.gov.in.

30. Who can I contact for queries regarding my application?

The DST e-PMS portal has a helpdesk and contact details. You can also reach out to the KIRAN Division of DST. For procedural guidance, your local Zila Sainik Board or state science and technology department may also conduct awareness workshops.