NCISM Launches New Grants to Foster Student Research in Ayurveda

Strengthening the research ecosystem within traditional medicine, National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) Chairperson Prof. Maneesha Kothekar launched CCRAS SPARK 5.0 alongside the second circular for CCRAS Ayurshodh 2026. Spearheaded by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), these dual initiatives aim to cultivate scientific aptitude among undergraduate students while honoring excellence in scholarly publication, research communication, and technological innovation.

The fifth edition of the Studentship Program for Ayurveda Research Ken (SPARK) for 2026–27 introduces undergraduate BAMS students to foundational research methodologies through short-term independent projects. The program offers a total of 300 studentships with a financial grant of ₹50,000 per project. Eligibility extends to third, fourth, or professional year BAMS students enrolled in NCISM or government-recognized institutions, with registration opening on October 15, 2026, and closing on November 15, 2026.

Designed to recognize and encourage premier research contributions, Ayurshodh features competitions across three categories, with prize sponsorship from Shree Dhootapapeshwar Limited. These include CCRAS-Prabodh 3MT for effective research communication through three-minute thesis presentations, CCRAS-Prakash for honoring original research publications, and CCRAS-Navonmesha for recognizing innovative prototypes and transformative methodologies.

The grand finals for CCRAS Ayurshodh are scheduled for December 11, 2026. The launch event was graced by CCRAS Director General Prof. (Vaidya) Rabinarayan Acharya, Shree Dhootapapeshwar Limited MD and CEO Dr. Ranjit Puranik, alongside presidents of various NCISM boards and directors of CCRAS institutes nationwide.