The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) has officially announced the Call for Project Proposals under the Major and Minor Research Projects Scheme for the Financial Year 2026–27.
The scheme aims to support high-quality research aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Researchers, faculty members, and academicians from eligible Indian institutions can now submit their proposals through the online application portal by 31 August 2026 (06:00 PM).
Explore more Research Funding Opportunities
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) |
| Scheme | Major & Minor Research Projects (2026–27) |
| Funding | Up to ₹30 lakh |
| Project Duration | 12–24 months |
| Mode of Application | Online Only |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 August 2026 (06:00 PM) |
About the ICSSR Research Projects Scheme
The ICSSR Major and Minor Research Projects Scheme provides financial assistance to researchers working on innovative projects in Social Sciences and Humanities.
The Council has identified 32 broad research domains covering hundreds of priority research themes.
Some major research areas include:
- Economics and Public Finance
- Finance, Commerce and Management
- Rural Studies
- Political Science
- Governance and Public Administration
- Public Policy
- International Relations
- National Security
- Legal Studies
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Gender Studies
- Public Health
- Education and Skilling
- Environmental Studies
- Media and Communication
- Library and Information Science
- AI in Education
- AI in Public Health
- Open Science
- Digital Governance
- Indian Knowledge Systems
- Inclusive Development
- Decolonisation Studies
Interdisciplinary research proposals are also encouraged.
Important Date
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Submit Online Application | 31 August 2026 (06:00 PM) |
Applicants are advised not to wait until the final day to avoid technical issues during submission.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme is open to eligible researchers from recognized Indian institutions.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Social and Human Sciences and have a strong publication record in reputed journals or books.
Funding Support
ICSSR provides financial assistance under two categories:
| Project Type | Duration | Maximum Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Research Project | 12 Months | Up to ₹15 Lakh |
| Major Research Project | 24 Months | Up to ₹30 Lakh |
Selection Process
Researchers must submit applications only through the ICSSR online portal. The selection process includes multiple stages:
- Initial screening of applications.
- Blind peer review by experts.
- Shortlisted applicants may be invited for an online or offline presentation.
- Final selection based on expert recommendations.
Download Official Notification