About this programme
SITARE supports innovative student projects in biotechnology, encouraging translational research toward products and technologies. It has two components: SITARE-GYTI Award Grant funding up to INR 15 lakh each for 15 postgraduate/doctoral student projects with commercial potential, and SITARE-Appreciation Grants of up to INR 1 lakh for undergraduate students selected through residential Biotech Innovation Ignition School (BIIS) workshops. It is run by BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council).
The support is delivered through the programme’s own structure, and the form it takes is set by the issuing authority. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
It is aimed at businesses in biotechnology student research. Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
Who can apply
Indian students pursuing PhD/Masters (any discipline) for SITARE-GYTI; undergraduate students, preferably from Tier II/III cities, for SITARE-Appreciation/BIIS; valid institution/university ID required.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN (and GST registration, where applicable)
- Identity and address proof for the applicant / directors
- A short description of your business or project
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
Who runs this programme?
SITARE (Students Innovations for Translation & Advancement of Research Explorations) is offered by BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council). Eligibility and approval rest with them; the criteria and amounts are set by the programme.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Programmes like this can be rolling or time-bound. Confirm the current window on the official programme page before you apply.
How do I know if I’m eligible?
Read “Who can apply” above for the programme’s own criteria. If you’d like a quick read on your specific case, our free 2-minute eligibility check maps your stage, sector and revenue to what you can realistically claim.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.