Capacity Building and Human Resource Development (CBHRD) Scheme

• 27 Sep 2025

Source: PIB

The Union Cabinet has approved the Capacity Building and Human Resource Development Scheme for the period 2021-2026 under the 15th Finance Commission Cycle.  

• Aim: To enhance India’s human resource capacity in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medical, and Mathematical (STEMM) sciences and strengthen the country’s R&D ecosystem.
• Implementation Body: The scheme is being implemented by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which is the apex body for scientific research in India.
• Target Institutions: The scheme will encompass all R&D institutions, national laboratories, Institutes of National Importance, Institutes of Eminence, and universities across the country.
• Sub Scheme: The CBHRD Scheme includes four sub-schemes:
  • Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships
  • Extramural Research, Emeritus Scientist, and Bhatnagar Fellowship Programs
  • Promotion and Recognition of Excellence through Awards
  • Travel and Symposia Grant Scheme for Knowledge Sharing
• Significance: Over the past decade, India's investment in R&D has significantly boosted its position in the Global Innovation Index (GII), reaching 38th place in 2025. 
  • India is now among the top three countries for scientific paper publications. This progress is supported by initiatives like the CBHRD Scheme by CSIR, which fosters innovation through fellowships, research programs.

Read More: CSIR