The Indian Knowledge Systems Division (IKS Division) under the Ministry of Education has officially announced the IKS Competitive Research Proposals Program for 2026–2027. This flagship funding initiative aims to promote deep, original, and interdisciplinary research rooted in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) while addressing contemporary societal challenges.
This call invites scholars, practitioners, and institutions across India to contribute to the rejuvenation and mainstreaming of Bharatiya knowledge traditions through rigorous academic research and practical applications.
📌 Important Dates to Remember
- Proposal submission deadline: 30 January 2026
- Announcement of awards: 27 February 2026
- Funding release: 15 April 2026
- Final project report due: 31 March 2028
🌏 About the IKS Division
The IKS Division was established with a long-term vision of reclaiming and revitalizing India’s uninterrupted knowledge traditions. Drawing from Jñāna (knowledge), Vijñāna (science), and Jīvana Darśana (philosophy of life), the division seeks to bridge traditional wisdom with contemporary disciplines to offer sustainable, holistic solutions for the world.
The program emphasizes three foundational principles:
- Paramparā – continuity of authentic knowledge traditions
- Dṛṣṭi – unique Indian perspectives with global relevance
- Laukik Prayojana – real-world applicability and societal impact
🎯 Objective of the Competitive Research Program
The Competitive Research Proposals Program is designed to:
- Support original and serious scholarly research in IKS
- Encourage interdisciplinary and collaborative studies
- Enable applied research leading to practical products, practices, or policy insights
- Align outcomes with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
Up to ₹25 lakhs over two years is available per project, with typical awards ranging from ₹5–10 lakhs.
Thematic Research Areas
Proposals must focus on one of the following 16 thematic areas:
- Vedic Philosophical and Cognitive Sciences
- Historical and Civilizational Sciences
- Contemporary Social & Cultural Sciences
- Mathematical, Physical & Astronomical Sciences
- Speech and Linguistics
- Political, Economic & Strategic Sciences
- Medical and Health Sciences
- Culinary, Nutritional & Pharmacological Sciences
- Agricultural, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry
- Performing Arts
- Mechanical & Digital Design & Engineering
- Civil & Architectural Sciences
- Fine Arts & Sculpture
- Chemical, Metallurgical & Material Sciences
- Fashion & Interior Design
- Edutainment Sciences
Each proposal must clearly demonstrate alignment with IKS philosophy and methodologies rather than offering a general or modern-only perspective.
👩🏫 Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Faculty from government-recognized institutions (public/private)
- Researchers from government-funded labs and IKS-focused NGOs
- Acharyas from Gurukulas and Pathashalas
- Practicing artists with proven teaching and learning experience
Independent researchers without institutional affiliation are not eligible. Proposals involving traditional scholars, artisans, and textual experts are strongly encouraged.
💰 Funding & Support
Funding may be used for:
- Research fellows, project associates, and interns
- Equipment (up to 20% of total budget)
- Domestic travel and fieldwork
- Consumables, books (limited), and contingencies
Construction, international travel, PI salaries, and overheads are not permitted.
🔍 Review & Evaluation Process
All proposals will undergo a two-phase peer review by subject experts. Evaluation criteria include:
- Relevance to IKS mission
- Originality and innovation
- Scholarly depth and methodological rigor
- Societal, economic, and environmental impact
- Competence and experience of the research team
Only high-quality proposals with clear deliverables will be funded.
📝 How to Submit
- Proposals must be submitted online only
- Submission portal will be activated from 15 January 2026
- Upload a single PDF file (<20 MB) following the prescribed format
🔗 Submission details will be available at: www.iksindia.org
The IKS Competitive Research Proposals Program 2026–27 is a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to India’s intellectual resurgence by integrating timeless wisdom with modern research approaches. Scholars committed to authenticity, depth, and societal relevance are encouraged to apply and be part of this national mission.
