Organised in collaboration with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), the programme aims to strengthen scientific and technological cooperation between India and Japan by supporting collaborative research, workshops and seminars.

Eligible Indian scientists and researchers can submit proposals for Joint Research Projects as well as Joint Workshops and Seminars. Applications are open from 15 June 2026 to 3 September 2026 and must be submitted through the official DST electronic project management system.

DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026: Key Highlights

• Programme: India–Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) 2026
• Organisations: Department of Science and Technology (DST), India and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS)
• Application Start Date: 15 June 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 3 September 2026
• Opportunities: Joint Research Projects and Joint Workshops/Seminars
• Project Duration: Joint research projects may be supported for up to two years
• Application Mode: Online
• Official DST Portal: onlinedst.gov.in

Six Priority Areas for Scientific Cooperation

The DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026 call covers six major areas of scientific research. Researchers can submit collaborative proposals in the following disciplines:

Collaborative projects may explore fields such as advanced materials, biotechnology, clean and renewable energy, computational modelling, engineering systems, climate and earth sciences, agriculture and emerging technologies.

Objective of the India–Japan Cooperative Science Programme

The India–Japan Cooperative Science Programme is designed to establish and strengthen long-term research relationships between scientists and institutions in India and Japan.

A key requirement of the programme is bilateral participation. Indian researchers are expected to develop their proposals in collaboration with eligible Japanese researchers affiliated with institutions recognised by JSPS.

Projects should demonstrate that cooperation between the Indian and Japanese research teams will provide clear scientific advantages and contribute meaningfully to the proposed research.

Through such collaboration, participating researchers can benefit from:

• Exchange of scientific knowledge and expertise
• Access to specialised research facilities
• Collaborative experiments and studies
• Development of international research networks
• Opportunities for young scientists and researchers
• Long-term institutional partnerships

The programme also encourages researchers to combine complementary expertise and infrastructure available in both countries.

Joint Research Projects under IJCSP 2026

Under the programme, Indian and Japanese researchers can jointly propose scientific research projects.

Joint research projects may receive support for a period of up to two years, subject to the programme guidelines and approval process.

Applicants should clearly define the research problem, scientific objectives, methodology, responsibilities of both research teams and expected outcomes.

Proposals should also explain why international collaboration is important for the success of the project and how the expertise of researchers from both countries will complement each other.

Joint Workshops and Seminars

Apart from research projects, the programme also supports joint workshops and seminars involving Indian and Japanese researchers.

These activities are intended to promote:

• Exchange of scientific ideas
• Discussion of emerging research areas
• Networking among researchers
• Identification of new areas for collaboration
• Development of future joint research proposals

Workshops and seminars can be particularly useful for researchers and institutions seeking to establish new academic partnerships between India and Japan.

Who Can Apply for DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026?

The call is intended for eligible Indian scientists and researchers holding regular positions in recognised institutions.

Applicants may include researchers working in:

• Universities
• Academic institutions
• National research and development laboratories
• Recognised scientific organisations
• Other eligible research institutions

The Indian applicant must collaborate with an appropriate Japanese research partner affiliated with a university or research organisation recognised by JSPS.

Applicants should carefully check the official programme guidelines to confirm institutional eligibility, researcher qualifications and other conditions before submitting a proposal.

Importance of a Strong India–Japan Research Partnership

Since the programme is based on bilateral scientific cooperation, applicants should begin communicating with potential Japanese collaborators well before the application deadline.

A competitive proposal should clearly establish:

• The expertise of both research teams
• Individual responsibilities of the Indian and Japanese researchers
• The scientific value of the collaboration
• Research methodology and work plan
• Expected research outputs
• Proposed timeline
• Benefits for participating institutions
• Long-term potential of the partnership

Applicants should demonstrate that the proposed research would benefit substantially from collaboration between India and Japan rather than being carried out independently by either team.

How to Apply for DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026

Eligible researchers can submit their applications through the official DST online portal.

Applicants should:

1. Visit onlinedst.gov.in.
2. Locate the relevant DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026 Call for Proposals.
3. Read the official eligibility criteria and programme guidelines carefully.
4. Coordinate with the Japanese research partner and finalise the joint research plan.
5. Prepare the proposal according to the prescribed format.
6. Clearly mention the scientific objectives, methodology, expected outcomes and responsibilities of both teams.
7. Upload all required documents.
8. Submit the completed application through the designated electronic system before 3 September 2026.

Researchers are advised not to wait until the final date to complete the submission, particularly where institutional approvals or documents from the Japanese collaborator may be required.

What Should a Strong Research Proposal Include?

Researchers applying under the programme should prepare a clear and well-structured proposal.

Important elements may include:

• Background of the research problem
• Research objectives
• Proposed methodology
• Scientific significance of the project
• Expertise of the Indian and Japanese research teams
• Division of responsibilities
• Research timeline
• Expected results and deliverables
• Benefits of bilateral collaboration
• Potential long-term research impact

The proposal should clearly communicate how the collaboration will create scientific value and strengthen research links between the two countries.

Strengthening India–Japan Scientific Cooperation

India and Japan have continued to strengthen cooperation across science, technology, innovation and higher education. Initiatives such as the India–Japan Cooperative Science Programme provide researchers with opportunities to build international partnerships and undertake collaborative scientific work.

The DST–JSPS IJCSP programme can also support the exchange of expertise, development of research networks and creation of new opportunities for young scientists.

By bringing together researchers with complementary capabilities, such programmes can contribute to advances in areas ranging from materials and biotechnology to computational science, engineering, climate research and other emerging fields.

DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026 Application Deadline

Researchers interested in participating in the programme should complete their applications by 3 September 2026.

Because proposals require collaboration with a Japanese research partner, applicants should begin preparing the research plan, institutional documentation and bilateral work structure as early as possible.

Eligible researchers should refer to the official DST notification and detailed programme guidelines before submitting their applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026 programme?

The DST–JSPS India–Japan Cooperative Science Programme (IJCSP) 2026 is a bilateral research initiative jointly supported by India’s Department of Science and Technology and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. It supports collaborative scientific research, workshops and seminars involving researchers from India and Japan.

2. What is the last date to apply for DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026?

The last date for submitting proposals under the DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026 call is 3 September 2026. Applications opened on 15 June 2026.

3. Which research areas are eligible under IJCSP 2026?

Proposals are invited in six areas: Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Life Science and Agriculture, Mathematics and Computational Science, Astronomy and Earth Science, and Materials and Engineering.

4. Is a Japanese research partner mandatory for the programme?

Yes. The programme is designed specifically for bilateral India–Japan scientific collaboration. Indian applicants are therefore required to work with an eligible Japanese researcher affiliated with a university or research institution recognised by JSPS.

5. How can researchers apply for DST–JSPS IJCSP 2026?

Eligible Indian researchers should visit the official DST portal at onlinedst.gov.in, access the IJCSP 2026 call documents, prepare the proposal in the prescribed format and submit it through the designated electronic project management system before the deadline.

The convocation was held at the BITS Pilani Goa campus and featured Mr. Rakesh Kumar Verma, Co-Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of MapmyIndia, as the chief guest. A distinguished alumnus of BITS Pilani, Verma encouraged graduates to combine technical expertise with curiosity, resilience and sound human judgment as they build their careers.

The ceremony was presided over by Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani, in the presence of Prof. Suman Kundu, Director of the K K Birla Goa Campus, members of the Board of Governors, faculty, students and families.

BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026: 1,109 Students Graduate

The graduating batch represented a diverse range of academic programmes offered at the Goa campus.

• 674 First Degree students
• 257 Dual Degree students
• 121 Higher Degree students
• 57 PhD scholars

The graduating cohort highlights the institution’s growing contribution to engineering education, scientific research, advanced technology and doctoral scholarship.

Commissioned in 2004, the K K Birla Goa Campus operates from a sprawling 180-acre campus near Vasco-da-Gama in Goa. Over the years, the campus has developed into an important academic and research centre with modern laboratories, interdisciplinary programmes and industry-oriented educational opportunities.

Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao Highlights Curiosity, Integrity and Excellence

Addressing the graduating students, Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao encouraged them to continue following the values of curiosity, integrity and excellence that are associated with BITS Pilani.

He also highlighted changes being introduced in the institution’s academic curriculum to prepare students for a technology-driven economy.

BITS Pilani has been redesigning its curriculum to provide students with greater academic flexibility through cross-disciplinary electives, minors and emerging technology programmes.

The focus is on preparing graduates who can work across traditional disciplinary boundaries and respond effectively to challenges created by developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, deep technology, advanced computing and quantum technologies.

As industries increasingly seek professionals capable of combining expertise from multiple domains, interdisciplinary education is becoming an important part of preparing students for future careers.

Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal Winners at BITS Pilani Goa

Several students received academic honours during the BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026.

Among the First Degree graduates, Shamit Khetan received the Gold Medal. Vrishti Deepak Godhwani was awarded the Silver Medal, while Aditya Ashok Tailor received the Bronze Medal.

Among the Higher Degree students, Sumit Sakharam Ghodke and Rudraksh Alias Bhagwant Mukund Suryarao Sardesai jointly received the Gold Medal.

Vignesh A and Neelima M received the Silver Medal in the Higher Degree category.

The Prof. Suman Kapur Memorial Best PhD Thesis Award 2026 was presented to Dr. Madduri Madhuri for outstanding doctoral research.

The Prof. Raghurama Outstanding Student Award 2025–26 was presented to Aarya Ameet Agavekar, Himangi Aggarwal and Shamit Khetan.

These awards recognised outstanding academic performance, research contributions and student achievement across programmes.

Rakesh Kumar Verma Advises Graduates to Stay Adaptable

Chief guest Rakesh Kumar Verma used his address to highlight the importance of adaptability in a professional environment undergoing rapid technological transformation.

He encouraged graduates to remain curious, resilient and willing to continuously learn throughout their careers.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly changing the way professionals work across engineering, entrepreneurship, business, research and technology. Verma advised students to view AI as a powerful tool while continuing to rely on human judgment, creativity, curiosity and purpose.

His message emphasised that technology should complement human decision-making rather than replace the qualities that allow individuals to solve complex problems.

Verma also encouraged graduates to think beyond personal achievement. According to his message, professional success should also be evaluated through the positive value individuals create for society.

BITS Pilani Goa Expands Programmes in Emerging Technologies

The Goa campus introduced several new academic initiatives during the year, strengthening its focus on advanced technologies and international education.

One of the major additions was a co-tutelage 2+2 Computer Science programme with RMIT University, Australia.

The partnership provides students with increased opportunities for international academic exposure and collaboration.

BITS Pilani Goa also introduced two new postgraduate engineering programmes:

• M.E. in Quantum Science and Technology
• M.E. in Quantum Information Processing

A new Minor in Computing and Intelligence was also introduced.

These programmes reflect the growing demand for professionals trained in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and advanced computing technologies.

Research Projects Worth Over ₹30.72 Crore

Research remained an important focus of the Goa campus during the academic year.

The campus secured 91 sponsored research projects worth more than ₹30.72 crore and produced 720 research publications.

Faculty members worked across several emerging and strategically important areas, including:

• Green hydrogen
• Quantum technologies
• Advanced semiconductor devices
• Indigenous navigation systems

Research in these areas is particularly relevant to India’s growing focus on clean energy, semiconductor manufacturing, advanced computing and technological self-reliance.

The number of sponsored projects and research publications also demonstrates the campus’ increasing involvement in research-driven innovation.

New Laboratories and Innovation Infrastructure

BITS Pilani Goa has also been expanding its research and innovation infrastructure.

New and upgraded facilities include laboratories focusing on augmented reality and virtual reality, biomedical engineering, impact engineering and micro-fabrication.

The campus has also developed a BSL-2 biosciences facility, which can support advanced biological and biomedical research.

Another notable initiative is the AICTE IDEA Lab, which is supported by a proposed investment of approximately ₹90 lakh.

The facility is expected to provide students with opportunities to experiment, prototype ideas and develop innovative solutions. Such infrastructure can also support entrepreneurship by allowing students to convert academic concepts into practical projects and potential startups.

BITS Pilani Goa Strengthens Its Role in India’s Innovation Ecosystem

The BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026 represented more than the completion of academic programmes for 1,109 students.

It also highlighted the institution’s continuing efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary education, international collaboration, research and emerging technology programmes.

From quantum science and artificial intelligence to green hydrogen, semiconductor technology and biomedical engineering, the Goa campus is expanding its academic and research activities in areas expected to influence the future of technology.

For graduates, the convocation marked the beginning of a new professional journey. The message from academic leaders and the chief guest remained clear: technical knowledge will continue to be important, but qualities such as curiosity, adaptability, integrity, resilience and human judgment will be equally critical.

As the Class of 2026 enters careers in engineering, research, entrepreneurship, higher education and business, the graduating students will carry forward the academic foundation and interdisciplinary outlook developed at BITS Pilani.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When was BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026 held?

BITS Pilani’s K K Birla Goa Campus held its Convocation 2026 on August 9, 2026, at the Goa campus.

2. How many students graduated from BITS Pilani Goa in 2026?

A total of 1,109 students graduated during the ceremony, including 674 First Degree students, 257 Dual Degree students, 121 Higher Degree students and 57 PhD scholars.

3. Who was the chief guest at BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026?

Rakesh Kumar Verma, Co-Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of MapmyIndia and a BITS Pilani alumnus, attended the ceremony as the chief guest.

4. Who received the Gold Medal at BITS Pilani Goa Convocation 2026?

Shamit Khetan received the Gold Medal among First Degree graduates. Among Higher Degree students, Sumit Sakharam Ghodke and Rudraksh Alias Bhagwant Mukund Suryarao Sardesai jointly received the Gold Medal.

5. What new programmes has BITS Pilani Goa introduced?

The Goa campus introduced a 2+2 Computer Science programme with RMIT University, Australia, M.E. programmes in Quantum Science and Technology and Quantum Information Processing, along with a Minor in Computing and Intelligence.