NEW DELHI: The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has delayed the release of funds for its Women Scientist Scheme-A (WoS-A) and Women in Science and Engineering-KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN) programs for over seven months.
Hundreds of women researchers were left unpaid since April 1, 2024. The prolonged delay has stalled research efforts across the country, with scientists unable to access essential resources or sustain their projects.
The WoS-A and WISE programs, designed to promote gender parity in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, now face criticism for administrative inefficiencies contradicting their stated goals.
Funds for the financial year 2024-25 remain inaccessible, despite researchers submitting progress reports, utilization certificates, and other mandatory documents months ago.
The All India Research Scholars Association (AIRSA) has expressed concern over the issue, inviting affected scientists to a live session aimed at addressing the crisis and finding solutions.
Meanwhile, officials at the Technology Development Board (TDB), which is involved in fund transfers, have reportedly pointed to DST’s failure to assign bill numbers as the primary cause of the delay.
Vandana Singh, the head of the WISE-KIRAN Division at the Department of Science and Technology, received a detailed questionnaire but has not yet responded.
ALSO READ: PM Modi Highlights Neglect of Northeast in Past, Emphasizes Region’s Role in India’s Growth
ALSO WATCH: