E-YUVAS:BIRACIF(FPGA)

E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)

6.6/10

BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows program is designed to empower individuals aiming to initiate biotech startups. Eligible candidates include Indian students who have completed a Master's degree or a Ph.D. in any field of science. The program offers a monthly fellowship grant of INR 30,000 for post-graduate fellows and INR 50,000 for post-doctoral fellows, along with annual research grants of up to INR 3,00,000 and INR 5,00,000, respectively. Selected fellows are required to work full-time at E-YUVA Centers (EYCs), which provide essential infrastructure and mentoring support. The program emphasizes the commercialization of innovative products and technologies, encouraging proposals that address unmet needs in various domains such as healthcare, agriculture, and clean energy. Continuous mentoring in technical aspects, intellectual property, legal advice, and fundraising is also provided to help fellows succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Central Composite

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Science And Technology

Nodal department: Department Of Biotechnology

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): No

Categories: Science, IT & Communications

Sub-categories: Research & Development

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: E-YUVA, Innovation, Fellow, Translational Research, Fellowship, Post Graduate

Details

The scheme “Empowering Youth for Undertaking Value Added Innovative Translational Research (E-YUVA)” was started by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) to promote a culture of applied research and need-oriented (societal or industry) entrepreneurial innovation among young students and researchers. The scheme provides funding support (through fellowship and research grant), technical and business mentoring, exposure to bio incubation model, orientation to an entrepreneurial culture, etc. to students at various levels including undergraduates, post-graduates, and post-doctoral.
The scheme provides support under the following two categories:

  • BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)
  • BIRAC’s E-YUVA Fellows (for under graduate students)

BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above):
BIRAC’s Innovation fellows shall apply as an individuals and are required to work full-time at EYC. BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows are expected to initiate biotech startups. Hence, only proposals with the potential to commercialize innovative products and technologies will be considered for support.

Areas covered:

BIRAC Innovation Fellowship proposals can be submitted in any domain including Healthcare, Lifesciences, Diagnostics, Medical Devices, Drugs, Vaccines, Drug Formulations and delivery systems, Industrial Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Agriculture, Secondary agriculture, Waste Management, Sanitation, Clean Energy and Artificial Intelligence/IoT/ Automation with application in any of these areas. BIRAC encourages interdisciplinary proposals from any stream that can help the conversion of innovative ideas into biotech products and technologies in any of the above fields.

Nature of Proposals supported:

  • Translational research proposals to develop innovative products and technologies with the potential to address unmet needs.
  • BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows are expected to initiate biotech startups. Hence, only proposals with the potential to commercialize innovative products and technologies will be considered for support.

Number and Duration of Fellowship:

  • Each EYC can have 3 Innovation Fellows at any given time.
  • Fellowship is provided for a period of 18 months with a provision of 6 months extension only for deserving cases.

Expected Deliverable:

The scheme’s mandate is to promote and encourage young students to embrace translational research to develop innovative products and technologies addressing unmet needs. The work supported through BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows are expected to work towards

  • Individual to Company(I to C) conversion
  • IP creation

Benefits

  • BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows will receive fellowship grants and annual research grants as mentioned below: Fellowship grant: 1. INR 30 000/- per month for Post-graduate fellow 1. INR 50 000/- per month for Post-doctoral fellow Annual research grant: 1. INR 3 00 000/- per year for Post-graduate fellow 1. INR 5 00 000/- per year for Post-doctoral fellow Note: EYCs and BIRAC provide continuous mentoring support to fellows including but not limited to Technical Mentoring
  • IP Support
  • Legal Support
  • Networking and Outreach Training
  • Regulatory Advice
  • Business Mentoring and Fundraising

BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows will receive fellowship grants and annual research grants as mentioned below:

Fellowship grant:

  1. INR 30,000/- per month for Post-graduate fellow
  2. INR 50,000/- per month for Post-doctoral fellow

Annual research grant:

  1. INR 3,00,000/- per year for Post-graduate fellow
  2. INR 5,00,000/- per year for Post-doctoral fellow

Note: EYCs and BIRAC provide continuous mentoring support to fellows, including but not limited to Technical Mentoring, IP Support, Legal Support, Networking, and Outreach, Training, Regulatory Advice, Business Mentoring and Fundraising.

Eligibility

Post Graduate Fellow:

  1. An Indian Student who has completed a Master's degree in any field of science is eligible to apply for this fellowship.
  2. The fellow should apply within 3 years of completion of the degree (Females are exempted from this condition).

Post-Doctoral Fellow:

  1. An Indian student who has completed a Ph.D. in any field of science is eligible to apply for this fellowship.
  2. The fellow should apply within 2 years of completion of the degree (Females are exempted from this condition).

Other requirements:

  • BIRAC’s Innovation fellows are required to work full-time at EYC.
  • Students pursuing PhD cannot be considered for fellowship grants.
  • Selected fellows cannot pursue PhD during the fellowship tenure.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

6.6
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 6.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 4.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 5.0/10 Moderate
Financial impact 8.0/10 Good
Literacy barrier 7.0/10 Challenging
Women inclusivity 8.0/10 Good
Awareness 7.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 8.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility6.0
  • Financial impact8.0
  • Rural utility4.0
  • Awareness7.5
  • Simplicity5.0
  • Inclusivity8.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The E-YUVA Scheme aims to support individuals in initiating biotech startups through fellowship and mentoring.

Key challenges addressed

  • Encourages innovation in biotechnology
  • Supports young researchers in commercializing their ideas

Most beneficial for

  • Post-graduate and post-doctoral students in science fields
  • Individuals interested in biotech startups

Likely challenges

  • High application complexity for first-time applicants
  • Digital dependency may exclude some potential applicants

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme is practical for those with the necessary educational background but may exclude less digitally literate individuals.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access in rural areas
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • High digital dependency for application process

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Potential delays in application processing

Awareness challenges

  • Low visibility in rural areas

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Verification complexity
Moderate
Office dependency
Low
DBT dependency
No
CSC support
Limited
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach High
  • Occupation reach Students and researchers in science

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Fellowship and research grants
Benefit frequency
Monthly and annually
Benefit practicality
High for eligible candidates
Financial meaningfulness
High, with significant monthly and annual grants
Long-term impact
Encourages sustainable biotech innovation and entrepreneurship

Plain-language guidance

The E-YUVA Scheme supports post-graduate and post-doctoral students in starting biotech companies by providing financial grants and mentoring. It is designed for individuals with innovative ideas in biotechnology.

Who should apply
Post-graduate and post-doctoral students in science fields.
Who may struggle
First-time applicants and those with limited digital skills.
Best application route
Apply directly through the BIRAC online portal.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

Application Process:

Step 01: The applications for fellowships will be invited at the national level through advertisements in national dailies/website/ suitable magazines.
Step 02: Online application submission needs to be done through the BIRAC website. (https://birac.nic.in/)
Step 03: Applicants need to create a user account on BIRAC’s website followed by filling up of online application form. Click here for a step-by-step guide for the application
Note: In the application form, the applicant will be asked to indicate up to 3 choices for E-Yuva Centres. Click here for E-YUVA Centers contact details

Selection Process:

Step 01: The Centre-wise list of applicants will be created and sent to E-cells/respective Centre for eligibility check and further evaluation.
Step 02: The shortlisted applicants/teams will be called for a presentation before a Technical Expert Committee along with BIRAC nominees at respective EYCs.
Step 03: The selected applicants will be called as BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows and will enter into an agreement with EYC.

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What is the “E-YUVA Scheme”?

The scheme “Empowering Youth for Undertaking Value Added Innovative Translational Research (E-YUVA)” was started by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) to promote a culture of applied research and need-oriented (societal or industry) entrepreneurial innovation among young students and researchers. The scheme provides funding support (through fellowship and research grant), technical and business mentoring, exposure to bio incubation model, orientation to an entrepreneurial culture, etc. to students at various levels including undergraduates, post-graduates, and post-doctoral.

What is the “E-YUVA Centers (EYCs)”?

E-Yuva Centers are housed within the University/Institute set-up. It acts as an anchor and extends requisite support and mentoring to students. Each EYC has a BIRAC-supported pre-incubation space which offers infrastructure and equipment for basic research and experimentation by selected students.

Which is the implementing agency of this scheme?

Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)

What is the “BIRAC’s Innovation Fellowship”?

The “BIRAC’s Innovation Fellowship” is the scheme a category under E-YUVA Scheme. Under the scheme, the student who have completed post-graduation and above can apply for the fellowships and the selected applicants will be called as BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows. BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows are expected to initiate biotech startups. Hence, only proposals with the potential to commercialize innovative products and technologies will be considered for support.

What are the areas covered under this fellowship category?

BIRAC Innovation Fellowship proposals can be submitted in any domain including Healthcare, Lifesciences, Diagnostics, Medical Devices, Drugs, Vaccines, Drug Formulations and delivery systems, Industrial Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Agriculture, Secondary agriculture, Waste Management, Sanitation, Clean Energy and Artificial Intelligence/IoT/ Automation with application in any of these areas. BIRAC encourages interdisciplinary proposals from any stream that can help the conversion of innovative ideas into biotech products and technologies in any of the above fields.

What is the nature of proposals?

Nature of Proposals supported: • Translational research proposals to develop innovative products and technologies with the potential to address unmet needs. • BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows are expected to initiate biotech startups. Hence, only proposals with the potential to commercialize innovative products and technologies will be considered for support.

How many Innovation Fellows can be at Each EYC?

Each EYC can have 3 Innovation Fellows at any given time.

What is the duration of fellowship?

Fellowship is provided for a period of 18 months with a provision of 6 months extension only for deserving cases.

Who is eligible to apply under the scheme?

An Indian Student who has completed Masters/ Ph.D in any discipline is eligible to apply for this fellowship.

What are the other requirements to apply under the scheme?

Other requirements: • BIRAC’s Innovation fellows are required to work full-time at EYC. • Students pursuing PhD cannot be considered for fellowship grants. • Selected fellows cannot pursue PhD during the fellowship tenure.

What is nature of support provided to fellows under the scheme?

BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows will receive fellowship grants and annual research grants as mentioned below: Fellowship grant: 1. INR 30,000/- per month for Post-graduate fellow 2. INR 50,000/- per month for Post-doctoral fellow Annual research grant: 1. INR 3,00,000/- per year for Post-graduate fellow 2. INR 5,00,000/- per year for Post-doctoral fellow

How can an applicant submit the proposals under the scheme?

Online application submission needs to be done through the BIRAC website. (https://birac.nic.in/)

References

Guidelines
https://birac.nic.in/webcontent/1658838527_EYUVA_Guideline_Version_1.1.pdf
Official Website
https://birac.nic.in/e_yuva.php
Scheme Details
https://birac.nic.in/cfp_view.php?id=71&scheme_type=41

Apply

Apply now

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Science, IT & Communications, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Eligibility for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Benefits under E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) is managed by Department Of Biotechnology and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Applications for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is income certificate required for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above).
Is E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) a central government scheme?
Yes, E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Can small and marginal farmers apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Eligible small and marginal farmers may apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) subject to land ownership records, income eligibility, and agricultural beneficiary criteria.
Does E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) provide subsidy support for farmers?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may provide agricultural subsidies, financial assistance, crop support, irrigation benefits, insurance coverage, or farming-related welfare assistance depending on the scheme structure.
Can students apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Does E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) provide healthcare or insurance support?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may provide healthcare assistance, insurance coverage, cashless treatment support, medical reimbursement, or hospital-related benefits depending on the scheme structure.
Can beneficiaries use E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) at government hospitals?
Eligible beneficiaries may be able to access services at empanelled hospitals, government healthcare facilities, or authorised healthcare providers depending on scheme participation rules.
Does E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) provide business loan or startup assistance?
E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
Is collateral required under E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above)?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) in All India?
Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with E-YUVA Scheme: BIRAC’s Innovation Fellows (for post graduates and above) applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.