The Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer in Medicine (FITM) play a pivotal role in promoting research and innovation in the field of traditional medicine in India. In collaboration with the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy), FITM has initiated the AYUSH Research Fellowships Scheme. This scheme aims to foster scientific exploration, promote evidence-based practices, and advance the knowledge base of traditional Indian medicine systems.
AYUSH, an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy, represents the diverse array of traditional medicine systems that have been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. Recognising the importance of preserving, promoting, and validating these systems, FITM has introduced the AYUSH Research fellowships scheme to encourage scholars and researchers to delve deeper into the scientific aspects of these ancient practices.
Objectives of FITM - AYUSH Research Fellowships Scheme
- Promoting research excellence: The primary objective of the scheme is to foster excellence in research related to AYUSH systems. By providing fellowships to deserving researchers, FITM aims to elevate the quality of research conducted in traditional medicine.
- Integration of modern science and traditional knowledge: The scheme emphasises the integration of modern scientific methodologies with traditional knowledge. This interdisciplinary approach encourages researchers to explore the scientific basis of traditional practices and develop evidence-based interventions.
- Capacity building: FITM - AYUSH Research fellowships scheme is designed to enhance the research capabilities of individuals involved in traditional medicine. It provides a platform for capacity building by supporting researchers in acquiring advanced skills and knowledge.
- Documentation and validation: The scheme places a strong emphasis on documenting and validating traditional medicinal practices. By conducting rigorous research, the aim is to establish a robust scientific foundation for these age-old systems, thereby gaining wider acceptance both nationally and globally.
- Encouraging collaboration: FITM recognises the importance of collaboration between traditional practitioners, researchers, and modern healthcare professionals. The scheme facilitates collaborative projects that bring together diverse expertise to address complex healthcare challenges.
Application and eligibility
The FITM - AYUSH research fellowships scheme invites applications from eligible candidates who hold a postgraduate degree in AYUSH systems or relevant disciplines. The fellowship is open to researchers, academicians, and practitioners with a demonstrated interest in traditional medicine research. The selection process is competitive, considering the candidate's academic background, research proposal, and potential contribution to the field.
Fellows are awarded financial support for a specified duration, during which they are expected to conduct in-depth research, publish findings in reputed journals, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective domains.
The FITM - AYUSH research fellowships scheme serves as a crucial initiative in bridging the gap between traditional medicine and modern scientific research. By supporting and nurturing talent in the field, this scheme aims to bring about a positive transformation in the perception and integration of AYUSH systems in healthcare. As the scheme progresses, it is expected to contribute significantly to evidence-based practices, encourage cross-disciplinary collaborations, and enhance the global standing of traditional Indian medicine.
Categories of fellowship under FITM-AYUSH Scheme
The FITM - AYUSH research fellowships scheme offers various categories of fellowships to cater to the diverse research needs within the realm of traditional medicine. These categories are tailored to accommodate different levels of expertise, research focus, and career stages. Here are the key categories under the FITM - AYUSH research fellowships scheme:
- Senior research fellowships: This category targets seasoned researchers, professors, and experts in the field of traditional medicine. Senior research fellowships aim to provide financial support to experienced individuals with a robust track record in research. The fellows under this category are expected to lead and guide research projects, mentor junior researchers, and contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge in traditional medicine.
- Junior research fellowships: Geared towards early-career researchers, postgraduate students, and individuals in the early stages of their research careers, Junior Research Fellowships aim to nurture emerging talent. These fellowships provide a platform for young researchers to explore and contribute to the scientific understanding of traditional medicine. Junior fellows are typically involved in focused research projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.
- Clinical research fellowships: Recognising the importance of clinical validation in traditional medicine, this category focuses on individuals engaged in clinical research within AYUSH systems. Clinical Research Fellowships support researchers and practitioners in conducting rigorous clinical trials, observational studies, and outcome assessments to establish the efficacy and safety of traditional medical interventions.
- Ph.D. research fellowships: Targeting doctoral candidates, the Ph.D. research fellowships aim to support individuals pursuing a doctorate in areas related to traditional medicine. These fellowships provide financial assistance to Ph.D. scholars engaged in research projects that contribute to the scientific understanding and validation of AYUSH systems.
- Postdoctoral research fellowships: This category is designed for individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and wish to further their research in the field of traditional medicine. Postdoctoral research fellowships support scholars in conducting advanced research, publishing findings, and establishing themselves as independent researchers in the AYUSH domain.
- International collaboration fellowships: Acknowledging the global significance of traditional medicine, international collaboration fellowships facilitate research collaborations between Indian researchers and their international counterparts. These fellowships aim to promote cross-cultural exchange, share best practices, and foster collaborative efforts to advance the understanding of traditional medicine on a global scale.
- Innovative research fellowships: This category encourages researchers to explore innovative and unconventional approaches in the study of traditional medicine. It supports projects that leverage cutting-edge technologies, interdisciplinary methodologies, or novel perspectives to contribute to the scientific evolution of AYUSH systems.
