Scheme for NRI scientists to work in Indian institutes started

Scheme is launched in a bid to reverse 'brain drain'

In a bid to reverse "brain- drain", the government today launched a scheme under which non-resident Indian scientists will be able to work in the country's institutions for a period of one to three months.

The Visiting Advanced Joint Research (Vajra) faculty scheme is a dedicated programme for foreign scientists and academicians, with emphasis on non-resident Indians, persons of Indian origin and overseas citizens of India to work as adjunct faculty in the government-funded academic and research institutions.

Union Science and Technology Minister Harsh Vardhan said the scientists under the VAJRA programme would draw a salary of $15,000 in the first month and $10,000 each in the remaining months.

"Indian scientists abroad are feeling optimistic that with the new government in power, they will have top class facilities and a very conducive environment," he said.

The number of scientists under the programme has been capped at 1,000.

The government currently awards the Ramanujan Fellowship to Indian students and doctors working abroad. The fellowship is awarded for five years.