Chandigarh: Reiterating its commitment to securing and strengthening the future of Punjab’s youth, the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has taken a revolutionary and historic step. With the launch of the “Young Scientists Travel Assistance Scheme,” the government has opened the doors to global platforms for the state’s talented scientists and researchers. This visionary initiative is injecting new energy into the field of science and technology in Punjab, clearly demonstrating a strong desire to give the state’s youth international recognition.
Operated by the Punjab State Council for Science & Technology (PSCST) under the STEM Outreach Program, this scheme addresses the fundamental challenge that many talented researchers cannot access the world’s best conferences and research platforms merely due to financial limitations.
The Mann government’s objective is clear: no young scientist from Punjab should be left behind simply due to a lack of funds. The plan is specifically designed for eligible scientists, technologists, and teachers under 45 years of age working in the state’s colleges, universities, and research institutions. Applicants must have a minimum of two publications in peer-reviewed journals (Scopus/SCI/Web of Science).
This assistance will enable young scientists to attend or present their research papers at important academic and scientific events organized both domestically and internationally, such as conferences, seminars, symposia, workshops, short-term schools/courses/training programs.
Under the scheme, participants will be provided with Travel Assistance of up to ₹15,000, covering 50 percent of the airfare or maintenance allowance, along with registration fees. This support will grant young scientists the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the latest scientific developments and technological trends worldwide, exchange knowledge, and establish international collaborations. This step will foster research aligned with Punjab’s scientific and technological priorities.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann described the scheme as a symbol of Punjab’s progressive thinking. According to him, the time has come for Punjab’s youth to be a part of world-class scientific discussions and present their research globally.
He stated, “Our government has firm faith in youth power and scientific progress. This scheme is not just financial aid, but a means to give wings to the dreams of our young researchers.”
The Mann government is consistently proving that development means not only infrastructure but also securing and strengthening the future of the youth. Where government schemes were often confined to paper before, real and visible change is now evident in Punjab.
This scheme sends a clear message that the youth of Punjab will no longer be left behind. This initiative will not only promote research and innovation but also give the new generation of Punjab a chance to think, learn, and become globally competitive at the highest level.
Punjab’s electorate is realizing that a government is working in the state that doesn’t just make promises but acts on them, and this scheme is a strong step in that direction, reflecting the Mann government’s goal of providing opportunity, respect, and a bright future.For more information and to apply, applicants can visit the official website of the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST), Department of Science, Technology & Environment, Govt. of Punjab at www.pscst.punjab.gov.in.
