What are the Benefits of the Women Scientist Scheme-A (WOS-A), and Who is Eligible to Apply?

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Namaste, my name is Sugandha Dalal from Sonipat, Haryana. I came across the Women Scientist Scheme-A (WOS-A) recently and found it to be an intriguing initiative aimed at supporting women in science. However, I’d like to understand more about its specific benefits and eligibility criteria. From what I gather, the scheme is designed to empower women scientists, especially those who have taken a career break, by providing opportunities to engage in research and development. But what exactly does it offer? Does it include financial support, mentorship, or access to research facilities?

Additionally, who qualifies for this scheme? Are there specific educational or professional requirements, such as a minimum degree or years of experience? I’d love to hear from anyone who has applied or knows more about how this program has helped women scientists re-enter or advance in their careers. Thanks in advance for your insights!

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The Women Scientist Scheme-A (WOS-A) by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) is a fantastic opportunity for unemployed women scientists looking to re-enter the research field. This scheme provides financial support for a well-defined research project in science and engineering for a period of up to three years. If you’re interested in applying, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

  • Gender: Only female applicants are eligible.
  • Employment Status: Candidates must be unemployed or in a position other than a permanent role.
  • Age Limit: Applicants should be between 27 and 57 years (with a 5-year relaxation for SC/ST/OBC and physically challenged candidates).
  • Educational Qualifications:
    • Minimum Requirement: Postgraduate degree (M.Sc., B.Tech., MBBS, or equivalent in Basic or Applied Sciences).
    • Higher Qualifications Preferred: M.Phil., M.Tech., M.Pharm., M.VSc., or Ph.D.

Note: Women in permanent positions cannot apply for this scheme.

Fellowship Benefits

  • Financial Support Based on Qualification:
    • ₹55,000 per month (plus HRA) for Ph.D. holders (Total project cost: ₹30 lakh).
    • ₹40,000 per month (plus HRA) for M.Phil./M.Tech. or equivalent (Total project cost: ₹25 lakh).
    • ₹31,000 per month (plus HRA) for M.Sc. or equivalent (Total project cost: ₹20 lakh).
  • The grant covers expenses like equipment, travel, consumables, and contingencies for research.
  • The fellowship amount is directly transferred (DBT mode) to the recipient.

Application Process (How to Apply?)

The application process for WOS-A is completely online, and no physical submission is required.

  1. Register Online:
  • Visit WOS-A Portal and create an account using your active email ID.
  • You’ll receive an auto-generated email with a login ID and a link to set your password.
  1. Fill & Submit Project Proposal:
  • Log in to the portal and complete the Project Proposal Document (PPD).
  • Upload all required documents (formats available on the portal).
  1. Preview & Verify:
  • Review all details before submission. Once submitted, you cannot edit the proposal.
  1. Final Submission:
  • Click “Final Submit” to complete the application.
  • Your proposal is saved in the system and can be printed for reference.

Important: There is no need to submit a hard copy to the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Documents Required

Ensure you upload the following documents as per the prescribed format:

  • Project Proposal Document
  • Biodata of Principal Investigator (Signed)
  • Mentor’s Biodata (Signed)
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable – SC/ST/OBC/PH)
  • Date of Birth Certificate (10th class mark sheet)
  • Recent Photograph & Signature of Applicant
  • Highest Educational Degree Certificate
  • House Rent Allowance (if eligible)

Research Fields Covered

The scheme supports research in five key disciplines:

  1. Physical & Mathematical Sciences (PMS)
  2. Chemical Sciences (CS)
  3. Life Sciences (LS)
  4. Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (EAS)
  5. Engineering Technology (ET)

This initiative is an excellent gender mainstreaming effort that prevents brain drain in the Science & Technology sector while providing a stepping stone for women scientists to secure a permanent role in research.

For more details and official guidelines, visit:
:link: WOS-A Application Portal
:link: Formats & Instructions

If anyone has already applied or has experience with this fellowship, feel free to share insights or tips! :rocket: