The Women Scientist Scheme – B (WOS-B) is a special initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, designed to support women scientists who have taken a career break. This program provides research grants to women interested in solving social challenges through practical science and technology (S&T) interventions.
Under this scheme, eligible women scientists can receive a research grant for up to three years to implement a well-defined project proposal. The grant covers various costs such as fellowship, small equipment, consumables, travel, and contingency expenses, while institutional overhead charges are provided separately.
Objective of the WOS-B Scheme
The main aim of the Mahila Vigyanik Yojana – B is to encourage women scientists to use their scientific and technical expertise to develop or adapt technologies that improve the quality of life at the grassroots level.
Applicants are expected to create their own project proposals that offer innovative solutions for social and technological problems. Each proposal should clearly outline the social benefits expected from the implementation of the project and demonstrate the applicant’s ability to deliver effective results.
Financial Benefits
The scheme offers monthly fellowships and project funding depending on the candidate’s qualification level:
- Ph.D. or equivalent: ₹55,000 per month + applicable HRA (Maximum project cost ₹30 lakhs excluding HRA and overheads)
- M.Phil./M.Tech. or equivalent: ₹40,000 per month + applicable HRA (Maximum project cost ₹25 lakhs excluding HRA and overheads)
- M.Sc. or equivalent: ₹31,000 per month + applicable HRA (Maximum project cost ₹20 lakhs excluding HRA and overheads)
The total project cost includes the Principal Investigator’s fellowship, consumables, travel, contingency, and small equipment, but excludes HRA and overheads.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Women Scientist Scheme – B, candidates must meet the following conditions:
- The applicant must be a woman.
- She should be unemployed or working in a temporary/non-permanent position.
- The age limit is between 27 and 57 years (with a 5-year relaxation for SC/ST/OBC and differently-abled candidates).
- Applicants must have at least one of the following minimum educational qualifications:
- Postgraduate degree in Basic or Applied Sciences (M.Sc. or equivalent)
- Professional degree such as B.Tech. or MBBS
- M.Phil., M.Tech., M.Pharm., M.V.Sc. or equivalent degree
- Ph.D. in Basic or Applied Sciences
Note: Women working in regular or permanent positions are not eligible for this scheme.
Application Process
Eligible candidates can apply online or offline by following these steps:
Step 1: Registration
Visit the official online portal at https://online-wosa.gov.in/wosb/ and register using an active email ID. A system-generated email containing a login ID and password setup link will be sent to your registered email.
Step 2: Project Proposal Submission
Log in to the WOS-B portal and fill out the complete project proposal under the scheme. Upload all the required documents in the prescribed format along with the Project Proposal Document (PPD).
Step 3: Review and Final Submission
Before submission, preview your application carefully to ensure all details are correct. Once submitted, you will not be able to edit the proposal.
Click on “Final Submit” to officially submit your proposal. The proposal will be saved under your login ID and can also be downloaded or printed for your records.
Step 4: Hard Copy Submission
Send a hard copy of your proposal to the following address:
Mrs. Namita Gupta
Scientist ‘G’, KIRAN Division
Department of Science and Technology (DST)
Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road,
New Delhi – 110016
Please mention “Mahila Vigyanik Yojana – B (WOS-B)” clearly on the envelope.
Required Documents
Applicants need to attach the following documents while submitting their proposal:
- Project Proposal Document (in prescribed format)
- Signed Bio-data of the Principal Investigator (PI)
- Signed Bio-data of the Mentor
- Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/OBC/PH candidates)
- Birth Certificate (10th class certificate accepted)
- Recent Passport-size Photograph of the PI
- Signature of the PI
- Copy of the highest educational qualification
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) certificate (if applicable)
Conclusion
The Mahila Vigyanik Yojana – B (WOS-B) is a powerful initiative empowering women scientists in India to re-enter the research field and contribute meaningfully to society’s scientific and technological growth. By offering financial support and research opportunities, this scheme ensures that talented women can continue their scientific journey and make a lasting impact through innovation and social development.