Promoting Inclusive Participation in Frontier Research:

The Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG) is an initiative by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), established under the ANRF Act, 2023, to promote equal access and opportunity in India’s research ecosystem.

Launched following the first ANRF Governing Board Meeting chaired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, the IRG aligns with ANRF’s broader mission to:

• Advance India’s global research positioning

• Align R&D with national development priorities

• Promote inclusive growth and capacity building

Objective

The IRG scheme aims to empower researchers from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) by providing dedicated funding to pursue cutting-edge research in science and engineering. This initiative seeks to bridge opportunity gaps and provide a stepping stone to mainstream research programs by fostering capacity, innovation, and visibility among historically underrepresented communities.

IRG replaces the Empowerment and Equity Opportunities for Excellence in Science (EMEQ) scheme of the erstwhile SERB and offers enhanced support with greater flexibility.

Nature of Support

• Funding Amount: Up to ₹60 lakh plus overheads

• Duration: Up to 3 years

• Key Features & Flexibility:

  • Flexible use of resources under the recurring head

  • Flexibility in manpower recruitment

  • Support for international travel related to project activities

  • Enhanced provisions for contingency, travel, and overhead costs

  • Funding support for open access publications and patent filing charges

Why IRG Matters

By enabling SC/ST researchers to lead and expand research efforts in high-impact areas, IRG fosters inclusivity, scientific excellence, and equitable growth in the national R&D landscape.

Keep yourself updated with :  www.anrfonline.in

 Guidelines, FAQs, and Application Portal Coming Soon

Click Here for registering after which you have to apply : Register

Deadline: 31 July, 2025

For more details: HERE