New Initiatives Launched to Boost Ayurveda Research in India
The NCISM has launched SPARK 5.0 and Ayushodh 2026 to promote Ayurveda research among students, offering 50,000 INR support.
New Delhi, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) has unveiled two significant initiatives aimed at strengthening Ayurveda research and innovation. On October 14, 2026, NCISM Chairperson Prof. Manisha Kothekar launched SPARK 5.0 and Ayushodh 2026 in collaboration with the Central Council for Research in Ayurveda Sciences (CCRAS).
These initiatives aim to enhance research among undergraduate students, fostering academic excellence, research communication, and innovation within the Ayurveda ecosystem. SPARK 5.0, which stands for Student Program for Ayurveda Research Knowledge, is the fifth iteration of this program, now open for the 2026-27 academic year. Its primary goal is to familiarize Ayurveda undergraduate students with research methodologies and techniques, allowing them to work on short-term independent research projects.
The program is designed to cultivate research skills, analytical thinking, and an early interest in research careers among Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) students. This year, a total of 300 scholarships will be awarded, with each student receiving financial support of 50,000 INR. Eligible students must be in their third, fourth, or final year at NCISM-recognized colleges or universities.
Registration for the program begins on October 15, 2026, with the application deadline set for November 15, 2026. Ayushodh 2026 will provide a platform to recognize and encourage contributions to Ayurveda research. Awards will be given in three categories: CCRAS-Prabodh for thesis presentations, CCRAS-Prakash for scholarly publications based on original research, and CCRAS-Navonmesh for innovative prototypes and transformative research methodologies.
Details of the awards, including sponsorship from Shri Dhootapapeshwar Limited, are outlined in the second circular. The final event for CCRAS Ayushodh will take place on December 11, 2026. The launch event also featured CCRAS Director-General Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya, Dr. Ranjit Puranik, Managing Director and CEO of Shri Dhootapapeshwar Limited, along with various NCISM board chairs and heads from CCRAS institutes across the country.
These initiatives are expected to nurture emerging research talent and advance Ayurveda research in India.
