The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has initiated the STUDENTSHIP PROGRAM FOR AYURVEDA RESEARCH KEN (SPARK)” in order to promote interest and aptitude for research among Ayurveda undergraduates. The main objective of this program is to provide an opportunity to undergraduate Ayurveda students to familiarize themselves with research methodology and techniques undertaking short duration independent projects. This may inculcate research aptitude among them and also serve as an incentive for them to take up research as a career in the future. The Guide/ Institution must provide the student with all facilities for carrying out research. A total of 100 studentships per annum are approved, however, the number may vary as per the approval of the competent authority.The value of the studentship will be Rs.25,000/- per month for two months duration (Total Rs.50,000/- only) and is meant to be a stipend for the student. This is paid only after completion of research and approval of final report. Costs of research must be borne by Institution/Medical College where research is conducted. CCRAS institutes may be approached by the Guide/student for any technical guidance in formulation and execution of research proposals. A certificate will be issued and posted to Principal's office after 6-8 months of completion of research.

This program is only for interested Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) students [1st year to 4 th year (before appearing in 4 th year final exams)] studying in Ayurvedic Medical recognized by NCISM, before they appear in their final exams and therefore, interns/ PG students are not eligible to apply.The student must carry out the research in his/ her own medical college under the guide who is regular faculty of the medical college. Only permanent full time faculty members working in any of the Department of the Medical College where the student is enrolled can act as the guide. Part time consultants/visiting faculty/ residents/ Tutors/ PG students cannot be the guide.Only two students will be allowed to work under one guide. Two or more students are not permitted to work on the same topic in a group. Proposals submitted on the same topic by different students are liable to be rejected outright. The student may have one Guide. However, the help in the Research Work may be taken from other departments/ organisations as per need and their consent, but for any correspondence, responsibility/recognition/certification only the name of the Guide will be taken into consideration.Only Indian National students who are studying in recognized Ayurvedic medical colleges of India can apply. NRIs & Students from foreign institutes are not eligible for this program.One student can apply in any year of his undergraduate tenure but the studentship can be awarded only two times in different years to one student subject to selection of his application on merits.