- The Odisha government has announced the establishment of a dedicated “Research Fund” totaling Rs 1 crore per annum.
- The allocated funds will support various research-related activities conducted by government medical colleges, including SCBMCH in Cuttack, MKCG MCH in Berhampur, and VIMSAR in Burla.
- Managed by the respective deans, principals, and directors of the medical and dental colleges, hospitals, and post-graduate institutes, the Research Fund will exclusively support intramural projects.
- The scope of the scheme encompasses a wide range of research-related expenses, including conference attendance, digitization of research data, and publication of research papers.
- The Odisha government’s initiative to establish a Research Fund represents a significant milestone in advancing medical research and education in the state.
In a significant move aimed at fostering medical research and education, the Odisha government has announced the establishment of a dedicated “Research Fund” totalling Rs 1 crore per annum for each government medical college and post-graduate institute in the state. This initiative underscores the state’s commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge in the medical field.
The allocated funds will support various research-related activities conducted by government medical colleges, including prestigious institutions such as SCBMCH in Cuttack, MKCG MCH in Berhampur, and VIMSAR in Burla. Additionally, new government medical colleges and SCB Dental College in Cuttack will receive Rs 50 lakh annually, while PG institutes will be allotted Rs 25 lakh each per annum. This substantial investment, totalling Rs 9 crore annually, demonstrates the government’s proactive approach towards promoting research endeavors across the medical sector.
Managed by the respective deans, principals, and directors of the medical and dental colleges, hospitals, and post-graduate institutes, the Research Fund will exclusively support intramural projects. Disbursement of funds will be contingent upon approval from a selection-cum-monitoring committee established at each institution, ensuring transparent and accountable utilization of resources.
The scope of the scheme encompasses a wide range of research-related expenses, including conference attendance, digitization of research data, and publication of research papers. Faculty members and students will be encouraged to engage in research activities, with the ultimate goal of stimulating innovation, fostering collaborative research initiatives, and facilitating knowledge dissemination within the medical community.
To streamline the application process, principal investigators can submit proposals to the selection-cum-monitoring committee for consideration, adhering to specified guidelines and criteria. Funds may be utilized for meeting expenses associated with research publications, participation in conferences, and procurement of consumables and equipment essential for research projects.
Stringent ethical standards will be upheld, with mandatory requirements such as obtaining ethical clearance certificates for research projects and adhering to guidelines set forth by regulatory authorities. Originality and academic integrity will be paramount, with plagiarism strictly prohibited.
The Odisha government’s initiative to establish a Research Fund represents a significant milestone in advancing medical research and education in the state. By providing financial support and institutional infrastructure, this program aims to nurture a culture of inquiry, innovation, and excellence in the medical community, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and societal well-being.
(With inputs from agencies)
