Call for Grant Applications -Bridging Narratives Grant Program
Organisation Name:
Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India
Application Deadline:
1 September 2025
About Organisation
The Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, is a key agency responsible for promoting new areas of science and technology in the country. It supports and facilitates research, innovation, and collaboration across a wide spectrum of disciplines. The DST works towards strengthening academic and industrial research infrastructure and forging international partnerships to address global challenges. Its core mission involves fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in science and technology to enhance the quality of life for Indian citizens. DST is committed to supporting scientific research and innovation by funding projects, developing policies, and encouraging public-private partnerships. In this specific initiative, DST is collaborating with SEA Sweden to tackle the critical issue of decarbonization and climate transition in India’s steel and cement sectors. Recognizing the importance of global cooperation and industrial transformation, DST aims to empower Indian research institutions and industries to engage in meaningful cross-border collaborations and develop feasible solutions for large-scale climate action. This program exemplifies DST’s dedication to supporting projects that have the potential for real-world impact, while strengthening India’s role in the global sustainability landscape.
About the Grant
This grant is part of a bilateral initiative between DST (India) and SEA Sweden, aimed at supporting pre-pilot Technology Feasibility Studies for decarbonization and climate transition in India’s Steel and Cement industries. The grant encourages collaborative research between Indian companies and research institutions, in partnership with Swedish stakeholders. It intends to support pre-pilot stage activities that assess the potential, risks, and viability of future pilot or demonstration projects. These activities may involve resource identification, feasibility evaluations, risk analysis, and the development of operational cooperation frameworks between Indian and Swedish partners. The overarching goal is to lay a solid foundation for long-term climate innovation projects with real-world implementation potential. Indian participants are eligible for funding up to ₹4.5 Crore per project, with a total budget of ₹9 Crore allocated by DST. The funding is designed to complement SEA Sweden’s support of SEK 10 million for Swedish participants. Each selected project must be completed within a three-year timeframe. This initiative represents an important step toward sustainable industrial transformation in India through global collaboration and technical innovation.
Who can Apply?
Only consortia comprising Steel and Cement industries along with academic or research institutions in India are eligible. The lead applicant must be a relevant industry partner, supported by researchers or faculty members with regular positions in recognized academic or publicly funded R&D institutions. All Indian participants in a consortium must be legal, distinct entities, though multiple investigators from the same entity are allowed. Eligible Indian companies must be incorporated under the Companies Act of 1956/2013, have at least 51% Indian ownership, and must have operated for at least three financial years prior to the application deadline. Furthermore, applicants must be registered under the Goods & Services Taxation (GST) Act and demonstrate technical expertise relevant to the proposed project. Participation of public sector undertakings (PSUs) in steel and cement sectors is mandatory. Sole proprietors, partnerships, and companies headquartered or owned outside India (including their Indian subsidiaries) are not eligible for this call. This ensures that the supported projects are led by Indian entities capable of delivering meaningful impact in collaboration with Swedish partners.
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted as a consortium involving industry and academic/research partners. Proposals should align with the call’s focus on pre-pilot feasibility studies and demonstrate collaboration with Swedish entities.
Application Deadline
The complete proposal with all necessary documents must be submitted by 1 September 2025. No late applications will be considered.
Last Date to Apply
All interested applicants must ensure submission of their proposals no later than 1st September 2025, as per DST guidelines.
Grant Amount
The maximum funding available for Indian participants is ₹4.5 Crore per project, with a total DST allocation of ₹9 Crore under this call.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
