Scheme of Grant-in-Aid for Professional Associations/Organisations of Social Scientists in India

The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) invites applications from registered professional associations, companies, and trusts engaged in socio-economic research for its Development Grant for FY 2025–2026. Funding of up to ₹8,00,000 per year is available to strengthen institutional capacity, support operational needs, and enhance contributions to the social science community. Grants are assessed annually, with accountability ensured through audited financial reporting.

Overview

The ICSSR Development Grant supports organisations actively involved in social science research to grow their institutional capacity and improve contributions to national, regional, or local socio-economic research initiatives. The program focuses on operational support, resource enhancement, and fostering long-term organisational sustainability.

Key Objectives

• Strengthen institutional capacity of social science organisations.

• Support operational needs such as office expenses, equipment, and resources.

• Promote high-quality socio-economic research and development.

• Facilitate growth and professional development within the social science community.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Professional Associations/Organisations of Social Scientists.

• Companies registered under the Companies Act engaged in social science research.

• Trusts registered under relevant legal frameworks with a research orientation.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Organisation must be properly registered.

• Must have at least two years of operational history.

• Minimum national membership base of 200 members.

• Primarily research-focused; organisations engaged mainly in extension or social welfare activities are not eligible.

Funding Details

• Maximum Funding: ₹8,00,000 per year.

• Duration: Typically awarded annually for up to 5 years, subject to performance review.

• Use of Funds:

  • Office rent, electricity, and communication services.

  • Administrative costs including stationery, postage, and furniture.

  • Books, journals, and other library resources.

  • Computers and office equipment.

• Funding Release: In instalments, with the final portion retained until submission and acceptance of audited accounts and utilisation certificates.

How the Grant Works

1. Prepare Proposal: Outline organisational background, research focus, operational needs, and expected outcomes.

2. Submit Application: Provide registration documents, membership details, and previous achievements.

3. Advisory Committee Review: ICSSR’s Publication and Research Survey Division evaluates academic credibility, objectives, and research contributions.

4. Council Approval: Based on Committee recommendations, proposals are reviewed by the ICSSR Council for final approval.

5. Fund Disbursement: Funds released in instalments with accountability ensured through audited statements.

Common Tips and Best Practices

• Clearly demonstrate research orientation and national impact.

• Provide detailed budgets specifying operational and research-related expenses.

• Ensure compliance with registration and membership requirements.

• Maintain accurate financial records for seamless grant reporting.

• Highlight innovative or impactful projects to increase evaluation scores.

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the ICSSR Development Grant?
Professional Associations, Companies, and Trusts engaged in social science research and properly registered under relevant legal frameworks.

2. What is the maximum grant amount?
Up to ₹8,00,000 per year.

3. Can organisations primarily engaged in social welfare activities apply?
No, the grant is specifically for research-focused organisations.

4. How long is the grant awarded for?
Typically annually, with the possibility of renewal for up to five years based on performance review.

5. How is funding released?
In instalments, with the final portion contingent on submission and acceptance of audited accounts and utilisation certificates.

6. What can the funding be used for?
Operational costs, office expenses, library resources, equipment, and other essential items that support institutional functioning.

7. How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed by an ICSSR Advisory Committee and approved by the Council based on research contribution, academic credibility, and organisational impact.

Conclusion

The ICSSR Development Grant 2025–2026 provides essential support for research-focused organisations in the social sciences. By funding operational needs, institutional growth, and research activities, the program strengthens organisational capacity, fosters innovation, and promotes impactful socio-economic research across India. This initiative ensures transparency, accountability, and long-term contribution to the national social science community.