Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 attended the launch of Phase III of the Biomedical Research Career Programme, a joint initiative of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, and the London-based Wellcome Trust UK, where scholars and researchers from leading institutions across India shared their experiences as beneficiaries of the programme.

Context

The event brought together medical and biomedical researchers who have benefited from the fellowship scheme, allowing them to narrate their experiences ahead of the formal launch of the programme's third phase. Dr. Jitendra Singh, who oversees the Department of Biotechnology in his capacity as Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, was present at the occasion. The hashtag #DBT was used to mark the ministry's role in anchoring the collaboration.

Policy Backdrop

The DBT-Wellcome Trust Biomedical Research Career Programme was first launched in 2008 as a competitive fellowship scheme modelled on UK research systems, designed to support early- and mid-career Indian scientists in biomedical disciplines. The Wellcome Trust, one of the world's largest independent charitable foundations focused on health research, has been a long-standing bilateral partner of DBT in building India's domestic research capacity. Successive phases of the programme have aimed to create a pipeline of independent investigators working on priority health challenges.

India's broader strategy of using bilateral science partnerships to retain and develop research talent is reflected in DBT's portfolio of international collaborations. The programme is regarded as one of the more structured fellowship pathways available to Indian biomedical researchers, offering mentorship and funding support comparable to international standards.

Stakeholders and Impact

The primary beneficiaries of the programme are early- and mid-career researchers in medical and biomedical sciences at leading Indian academic and research institutions. By providing structured career support and international linkages, the scheme has helped scholars build independent research profiles within India rather than seeking opportunities exclusively abroad. The testimonies shared at the Phase III launch event underscored the programme's role in shaping research careers across the country.

The Department of Biotechnology serves as the nodal government agency coordinating the partnership, while the Wellcome Trust contributes both funding and programmatic expertise. The collaboration exemplifies a model where philanthropic international science funding is channelled into India's national research ecosystem through a government-anchored framework.

What's Next

With Phase III now formally launched, attention will turn to the announcement of fellowship calls under the new phase, including selection criteria, eligible disciplines, and the funding envelope. Details are expected to be reflected in forthcoming DBT annual plans and parliamentary budget documents. The expansion of the programme signals continued government commitment to strengthening India's biomedical research workforce through international co-investment.