two-day ULLAS Mela in New Delhi

Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan will inaugurate the two-day ULLAS Mela on 6th February 2024 at the National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi. Union Minister of State for Education Smt. Annpurna Devi will also be present as the Special Guest.

To achieve the target of 100% literacy by 2030, the Government of India is implementing a centrally sponsored innovative scheme called Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram or New India Literacy Program for the period of FYs 2022-2027. The scheme is popularly known as ULLAS: Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society, upholding the motto “Jan-Jan Sakshar”. The scheme is targeted at all non-literates of age 15 years and above. The scheme, in line with NEP 2020, targets adults (aged 15 and above) who could not go to school or attain formal education. It focuses on imparting Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), through critical life skills, such as Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, Legal Literacy, Environmental Literacy, Health & Hygiene, etc. Implemented in a hybrid mode, States/UTs have flexibility in offline, online, or combined approaches.

The scheme consists of five components: (i) Foundational Literacy and Numeracy; (ii) Critical Life Skills; (iii) Basic Education; (iv) Vocational Skills; and (v) Continuing Education. ULLAS is to be implemented through VOLUNTEERISM, encouraging citizen participation, emphasizing DUTY or Kartavya Bodh towards nation-building. The scheme contributes to India’s growth, by making India जन जन साक्षर. The ULLAS App has been developed to register learners, volunteers and also containing teaching learning material for them. The learners are certified as literate by way of twice-a-year assessments in September & March.

There have been substantial activities carried out under ULLAS in most of the States/UTs. Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education is organising ULLAS Mela on 6th-7th February, 2024 in collaboration with CNCL, NCERT to showcase various National and State level activities under ULLAS- Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram. The event will comprise various activities including felicitation of Neo-literates from the States/UTs who have successfully certified in the Foundational Literacy Numeracy Assessment Test (FLNAT), the launch of the ULLAS Concise Primers of the states/UTs in local languages, sessions on ‘Best Practices’, panel discussion, Prize distribution to the winners of poster-making competition held during the International Literacy Week. Seven hundred participants from various States/UTs along with more than 100 dignitaries from the Ministry of Education, States/UTs and various organizations will be participating in the event.

The live broadcast links for both days are:

1. Live Streaming Link: 6th Feb 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySaBTI9jumE

2. Live Streaming Link: 7th Feb 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDvXqM4jh94

***

G20 Education Working Group Meeting under Brazilian Presidency

Day one of the first Education Working Group (EdWG) meeting under Brazilian G20 Presidency was held virtually today wherein, the Indian delegation reiterated the government’s commitment to enhance the global education agenda. The delegation highlighted the importance of capacity building for educational professionals, innovative teaching-learning processes and emerging trends and on making tech-enabled learning more inclusive, qualitative and collaborative at every level and highlighted the crucial role of education in achieving SDGs, particularly through LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) initiative.

Sharing inputs on the priorities, the Indian delegation of senior Ministry officials highlighted India’s best practices on the identified priorities as guided by the National Education Policy 2020. Initiatives included SWAYAM, SWAYAM PRABHA, Academic Bank of Credit, SAMARTH, National Professional Standards for Teachers, 4-year Integrated Teacher Education Programme, DIKSHA, NISHTHA, Malviya Mission Teacher Training Programme, National Mission for Mentoring, industry collaboration for training courses and equipping educators in emerging technologies.

As part of the EdWG track, Brazil has identified the following 3 priorities for the meeting deliberations:

1. Valuing and Building Capacity of Education Professionals: what can we collectively do?
2. Connecting Managers of Digital Resource Platforms: the sharing of education material on Education for Sustainable Development.
3. The G20 Award for School-Community Engagement

The first EdWG discussions will continue on day two of the meeting to be held on 6th February 2024. Discussion will centre on the second and third priority that is, digital resource platforms and award for school-community engagement.

***

DoNER organises ‘North – East Sammelan’

Ministry of DoNER organized a North East Sammelan on February 4th, 2024 at Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi. Minister for DoNER, Tourism and Culture Shri G. Kishan Reddy was the chief guest for the event and virtually laid foundation stone of the North Eastern Cultural and Social Institute in Dwarka built at the cost of Rs 116.38 crore and inaugurated the Barak Hostel at JNU, New Delhi, worth Rs 28.67 crore, in presence of Minsiter for Earth Science Shri Kiren Rijiju ji, Minister of State DoNER Shri B.L. Verma, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Km. Pratima Bhoumik and Minister of State for External Affairs and Education, Shri Rajkumar Ranjan Singh and other dignitaries.

The event garnered the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Union Ministers, Members of Parliament from the North East, and MLAs from the North Eastern States. Noteworthy attendance comprised officers representing various cadres in the North East region, alongside officers from diverse backgrounds. The gathering, comprising an audience of 1000, notably included a substantial contingent of students from the North East studying in institutions across Delhi. The distinguished presence of Smt. Sangkhumi Bualchhuak, a recipient of the Padma Shri award for her commendable efforts in women empowerment, added a significant dimension to the occasion.

The North Eastern Cultural and Social Institute in Dwarka, with a budget of Rs. 116.38 crore, will feature diverse amenities, including an auditorium, a library-cum-reading room focused on materials related to the North Eastern Region, an Art Gallery showcasing the region, an exhibition hall, research center, sale outlets and a Guest House. The center will also house facilities like a State Handloom Display, a food court, and exhibition spaces. Concurrently, the construction of Barak Hostel for North-East Students at JNU, New Delhi, with an estimated cost of Rs. 28.675 Crore, featuring 214 rooms for both genders equipped with modern amenities, aims to enhance hostel accommodations for a larger population of North-East students.

During the unveiling ceremony of the two projects, Shri G. Kishan Reddy expressed that these initiatives have been long-awaited and will serve as focal points for cultural and regional integration. He emphasized that the North Eastern Cultural and Social Institute in Dwarka is anticipated to facilitate extensive discussions, meaningful discourse, and constructive exchanges aimed at promoting the holistic development of the North Eastern Region.

During his address at the Sammelan, the Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Culture, and Tourism, Shri G Kishan Reddy, highlighted the North East Sammelan as a remarkable platform to spotlight the abundant opportunities and rich cultural diversity inherent in the North Eastern Region. He emphasized the unprecedented growth and development witnessed over the last decade, transforming the region from a neglected area to the Ashtalakshmi of Bharat

Shri Reddy underscored the significant investments made, amounting to over Rs. 5 Lakh Crores since 2014, driving comprehensive and inclusive development across the region. He also lauded the remarkable progress in maintaining peace and security, evident in the notable reduction of insurgency incidents and civilian casualties, reflecting the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering stability.

Furthermore, Shri Reddy highlighted the establishment of state-of-the-art cancer hospitals catering to the healthcare needs of the populace, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure. Shri Reddy emphasized the substantial financial infusion into the region over the past decade, ensuring unhindered development. He noted a considerable increase of approximately 233% in expenditure, from Rs. 24,819 Crores in 2014-15 to Rs. 82,690 Crores in 2022-23, allocated by 54 Central Ministries to the North Eastern Region under 10% GBS (Gross Budgetary Support).

Union Minister for Earth Sciences, Shri Kiren Rijiju in his address said that he extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of the North East as we witness the significant launch of Barak Hostel at JNU for NE students and the foundation stone laying of the North Eastern Culture and Social Institute in Dwarka, New Delhi. Shri Kiren Rijiju, further added that North East Region is witnessing a transformative phase of development be it physical infrastructure, connectivity with rest of India or emotional and cultural integration. He added that the government ensures monthly visits of union ministers to different States of NER to ensure that the grievances and issues are addressed at the highest level. He further said that the Government, under the visionary leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji is taking forward the developmental activities on the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. He underscored the vital link between peace and Northeast development and highlighted the pivotal role of youth and emphasized that genuine progress in the region can only occur through people-led development, underscoring the critical need for sustained peace in the area.

Addressing the audience at the North East Sammelan, Union Minister of State Shri B.L. Verma highlighted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has not only recognized but also underscored the crucial role of the North-East in the Nation’s development, setting the stage for comprehensive national prosperity. This emphasis signifies a dedicated commitment to uplifting the region and fostering inclusive growth for the entire country especially commending effective governance and initiatives for the Ashtalakshmi’s over all development.

The dignitaries inspected the stalls and exhibitions put up by PSUs of DoNER North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC), North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation (NEHHDC) showcasing the initiative sand achievements towards welfare of farmers and artisans of the region. A stall by the North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd was also put up which showcased the milestones achieved in promoting SHGs, Small and micro enterprises and young entrepreneurs. The Ministers took the opportunity to engage with artisans and entrepreneurs present.

The Sammelan featured special videos that showcased PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision for roadmap and development for North Eastern Region. The event also featured videos highlighting the following achievements in the North-Eastern Region over the past decade.

The event concluded with a well-received cultural performance showcasing diverse traditional dances. Today’s initiatives collectively channel Government of India’s efforts to unlock the unparalleled potential of the North-East. The achievements outlined are not merely milestones but a testament to the Government’s commitment to a brighter and more prosperous future for the region.

***

DRDO carries out successful flight trials of High-speed Expendable Aerial Target ‘ABHYAS’

Four flight trials of High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) – ABHYAS were successfully carried out by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha during January 30 to February 02, 2024. The trials were conducted with four different mission objectives in a revised robust configuration using a single booster designed by Advanced Systems Laboratory, Hyderabad to provide reduced launch acceleration.

The objectives like safe release of booster, launcher clearance and attaining the required end of launch velocity were achieved. During the flight trials, various parameters like required endurance, speed, manoeuvrability, altitude and range were successfully validated.

Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), ABHYAS offers a realistic threat scenario for practice of weapon systems. It is designed for autonomous flying with the help of an auto pilot indigenously made by the ADE. It has Radar Cross Section, Visual and Infrared augmentation system required for weapon practice. It has a laptop-based Ground Control System with which the aircraft can be integrated and pre-flight checks, data recording during the flight, replay after the flight and post-flight analysis can be carried out. ABHYAS requires minimum logistics and is cost effective compared to imported equivalents.

The systems tested recently were realised through Production Agencies – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Defence. With identified production agencies, ABHYAS is ready for production. The system has export potential and can be offered to friendly countries.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated the DRDO, the Armed Forces and the Industry for the successful flight trial of ABHYAS. The development of this system will meet the requirements of aerial targets for the Armed Forces, he said.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat appreciated the efforts of the teams associated in the design, development and testing of the system.

***

MERA GAON MERI DHAROHAR

The Government of India has decided to map and document all villages under Mera Gaon, Meri Dharohar (MGMD) Programme. A web portal on MGMD has also been launched on 27.07.2023. The MGMD seeks to compile comprehensive information detailing the life, history, and ethos of Indian villages and to make the same available to virtual and real-time visitors. Under the MGMD, information is collected under seven broad categories as given below-

Arts and Crafts Village
Ecologically Oriented Village
Scholastic Village linked with Textual and Scriptural Traditions of India
Epic Village linked with Ramayana, Mahabharata and/or Puranic legends and oral epics
Historical Village linked with Local and National History
Architectural Heritage Village
Any other characteristic that may need highlighting such as fishing village, horticulture village, shepherding village etc.

The Ministry of Culture is implementing a Scheme of Financial Assistance for Promotion of Art and Culture consisting 08 components through which cultural organizations are given financial assistance for the promotion of art and culture. The details of the Schemes, through which cultural organizations are given financial assistance under scheme of Financial Assistance for Promotion of Art and Culture are placed at Annexure-I.

Financial outlay of Rs.353.46 Crores is approved under the scheme of Financial Assistance for Promotion of Art and Culture consisting 08 scheme components for a period of five financial years w.e.f 2021-2022 to 2025-2026.

Government of India decided to celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsava in befitting manner at national and international level during 15th August 2022 to 15th August 2023. Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav has been formally launched on 12th March, 2021 viz 75 weeks prior to 15th August 2022. Under the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”, Govt. of India celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, vide which, the contribution of Tribal freedom fighters was highlighted, and commemorations were held in remembrance of freedom fighters.

Through the campaigns Qila aur Kahaniya and Wonder Caves, the contribution of India’s forts and caves to the freedom struggle were highlighted. Through Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, the contribution of Tribal freedom fighters was also highlighted, and commemorations were held in remembrance of freedom fighters.

Centenary of Jallianwala Bagh massacre commemorated from 13.4.2019 to 13.4.2020. A tribute paying ceremony on 13.4.2019 was led by Hon’ble President at the Memorial site where commemorative coin and postage stamp were released. Memorial has been renovated. Museum and Light & Sound show has been set up. Inauguration ceremony of renovated Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial, Amritsar was presided over by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 28.8.2021.

Government of India commemorated 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Bose from 23rd January, 2021 to 23rd January, 2023. To mark the 125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, on September 8, 2022, Hon’ble PM unveiled Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s 28ft jet black granite statue near India Gate. Government of India also declared 23rd January as Parakram Divas.

ANNEXURE – I

A. SCHEME OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR PROMOTION OF ART AND CULTURE: The scheme consists of the following scheme components:

Financial Assistance to Cultural organizations with National Presence

The objective of the scheme component is to provide financial assistance to reputed cultural organizations with national presence (‘not-for-profit’ organizations, NGOs, Societies, Trusts, Universities, etc.) with a view to disseminate and propagate art & culture by organizing various cultural activities at National/International level for promotion of art and culture of the country. This grant is given to such organizations which has a properly constituted managing body, registered in India having an All India Character with National Presence in its operation, adequate working strength and have spent Rs. 1crore or more during any 3 of the last 5 years on cultural activities. The Quantum of assistance under this scheme is up to Rs. 1 Cr.

Cultural Function & Production Grant (CFPG)

The objective of this scheme component is to provide financial support to NGOs/ Societies/ Trusts/ Universities etc. for Seminars, Conference, Research, Workshops, Festivals, Exhibitions, Symposia, Production of Dance, Drama-Theatre, Music etc. The maximum grant provided under CFPG is Rs.5 Lakh which can be increased to Rs. 20 Lakh under exceptional circumstances.

Financial Assistance for the Preservation & Development of Cultural Heritage of the Himalayas

The objective of this scheme component is to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of the Himalayas through research, training and dissemination through audio visual programmes. The financial support is provided to the organizations in the States falling under the Himalayan Region i.e. Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. The quantum of funding is Rs. 10.00 lakhs per year for an organization which can be increased to Rs. 30.00 lakhs in exceptional cases.

Financial Assistance for the Preservation & Development of Buddhist/Tibetan Organization

Under this scheme component financial assistance is provided to the voluntary Buddhist/Tibetan organizations including Monasteries engaged in the propagation and scientific development of Buddhist/Tibetan Cultural and tradition and research in related fields. The quantum of funding under scheme component is Rs. 30.00 lakhs per year for an organization which can be increased to 1.00 crore in exceptional cases.

Financial Assistance for Building Grants including Studio Theatres

The objective of this scheme component is to provide financial support to NGO, Trust, Societies, Govt. Sponsored bodies, University, College etc. for creation of Cultural infrastructure (i.e. studio theatre, auditorium, rehearsal hall, classroom etc.) and provision of facilities like electrical, air conditioning, acoustics, light and sound systems etc. Under this scheme component, the maximum amount of grant is up to Rs.50 Lakh in metro cities and up to Rs.25 Lakh in non- metro cities.

(vi) Financial Assistance For Allied Cultural Activities

The objective of sub-component is to provide financial assistance to all eligible organizations for creation of assets for enhancing the audio-visual spectacle for allied cultural activities to give firsthand experience of live performances on regular basis and during festivals in open/closed areas/spaces where large numbers of tourists/visitors come regularly and during major events/festivals the number of visitors swells to lakhs. Grants are given to projects for procurement of audio-video equipment etc. Maximum assistance under the scheme component, including applicable duties & taxes and also Operation & Maintenance (O&M) costing for five years, will be as under:- (i) Audio: Rs.1.00 crore; (ii) Audio+Video: Rs. 1.50 crore.

(vii) Scheme for Safeguarding the Intangible Cultural Heritage:

This scheme was launched by the Ministry of Culture in 2013 for safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage and diverse cultural traditions of the country with the objective of reinvigorating and revitalizing various institutions, groups, NGOs, etc. so that they may engage in activities/projects for strengthening, protecting, preserving and promoting the rich intangible cultural heritage of India.

B. Domestic Festivals and Fairs

The objective of this scheme is to provide assistance for holding the ‘Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsavs’ organized by Ministry of Culture.

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture, Tourism And Development of North Eastern Region Shri G.Kishan Reddy in Lok Sabha today.

***

FUNDS TO MAKE HERITAGE BUILDINGS ACCESSIBLE

All ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains declared as national importance are accessible to public.

So far as provisions for disability are concerned the activity of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are regulated by provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 considering feasibility, scope and norms to maintain original character of the monument Various facilities are provided at protected monuments, details thereof are at Annexure.

There is no separate provision for the said activities. However, the expenditure is met out from overall budget of ASI allocated for the conservation and maintenance. The expenditure incurred on the same including providing amenities during last 5 years is as under:

(Amount in Crore)

Year	Expenditure
2018-19	406.38
2019-20	435.61
2020-21	260.90
2021-22	270.00
2022-23	392.71

The Right of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 provides provision for the same.

DETAILS OF AMENITIES / FACILITY AVAILABLE FOR DIFFERENTLY ABLED-PERSONS (DIVYANG) AT PROTECTED MONUMENTS

SL. NO.	STATE/UT	RAMP	WHEEL CHAIR	DIFFERENTLY ABLED (DIVYANG) TOILETS	SIGNAGE IN BRAILLE	AUDIO GUIDE	PATHWAY WITH TACTILE STRIP
	Andhra Pradesh	3	8	10	–	–	–
	Assam	3	5	6	–	–	2
	Bihar	2	5	4	2	2	1
	Chhattisgarh	1	3	10	2	–	1
	Daman & Diu, Dadar Nagar Haveli (UT)	–	–	1	–	–	–
	Goa	12	5	3	–	–	–
	Gujarat	6	15	12	5	–	–
	Haryana	4	6	5	–	–	–
	Himachal Pradesh	3	3	2	–	1	1
	Jammu & Kashmir (UT)	2	13	4	6	–	–
	Jharkhand	1	4	–	–	–	–
	Karnataka	21	40	25	13	1	1
	Kerala	8	29	7	–	–	–
	Ladakh (UT)	1	2	–	1	–	–
	Madhya Pradesh	14	33	5	27	2	8
	Maharashtra	4	14	13	3	25	1
	Manipur	1	1	–	–	–	–
	Mizoram	1	1	1	–	–	–
	NCT Delhi	6	41	10	7	1	1
	Odisha	11	8	9	7	–	–
	Punjab	3	7	4	–	–	–
	Rajasthan	27	13	9	1	–	4
	Tamil Nadu	27	47	38	22	–	9
	Telangana	6	11	4	–	–	–
	Tripura	3	3	2	–	–	6
	Uttar Pradesh	14	31	31	20	–	1
	Uttarakhand	20	25	10	11	2	–
	West Bengal	7	30	10	27	–	11
	Total	211	403	235	154	34	47

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture, Tourism And Development of North Eastern Region Shri G.Kishan Reddy in Lok Sabha today.

***

AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV

Under Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) about 2.00 lakh events/ programmes have been organised in last two years. The entire country has participated in these events. The main events/programes organised under AKAM including honouring freedom fighters are as under:

1. The Ministry of Culture organized the 217th Pazhassi Veerahuthi Raja Day on November 30th, 2022 and celebrated the contributions of Pazhassi Raja in Valliyoorkavu Temple ground, Mananthadavy.

2. Har Ghar Tiranga – The Hon’ble Prime Minister announced the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign on 22nd July 2022, encouraging people to bring home the National Flag to mark the 75th year of independence. More than 20 crore households hoisted the flag from 13th to 15th August 2022 and in the year 2023, more than 10 crore people uploaded their selfies with Tiranga on harghartiranga.com.

3. Rani Durgavati Commemoration: Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi performed ‘bhoomi poojan’ of ‘Veerangana Rani Durgavati Smarak aur Udyaan’ in Jabalpur in line with the 500th birth centenary celebrations of Rani Durgavati.

4. SWASTI Zonal Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav was organized from 29th September – 2nd October 2023 at Central Park, Connaught Place. Hon’ble Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah graced the occasion on 2nd October with his presence.

5. To mark the 125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, on September 8, 2022, PM unveiled Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s 28-ft jet black granite statue near India Gate. Govt. of India also declared 23rd January as Parakram Divas.

6. On the special occasion of 150th Birth Anniversary of Sri Aurobindo, Hon’ble Prime Minister released a commemorative stamp and coin in honour of Sri Aurobindo’s memory.

7. Shruti Amrut – Campaign under the theme “Cultural Pride” is a musical fiesta dedicated to honor the memories of unsung heroes. The performances by renowned singers is being organized across the nation from 1st October 2022 to 5th February 2023.

8. An exhibition on Women Freedom Fighters was organised in Rampur Raza Library, Rampur on the occasion of birth anniversary of Rani Laxmi Bai from 19th to 29th November, 2022. From the start, Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has made special effort to increase the awareness and spotlight unsung heroes of freedom struggle and enable people to pay their tributes to those who made out freedom possible.

9. Large scale efforts such as Azadi ki Railgaadi aur station, events in Meghalaya commemorating Tirot Sing, national events connected to Lachit Borphukan, inauguration of Biplabi Bharat Gallery in Victoria Memorial are some of the key initiatives in this direction.

10. Under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, an outreach program called KRANTITEERTH planned across India to commemorate unsung heroes, organisations, and places related to the freedom movement. The idea was to explore the marginalized or hidden histories of the leaders of India’s freedom struggle and bring out their historical contribution to the mainstream narratives. More than 190 events have been organized across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Tripura, and Odisha and included painting competitions, debates, essay writing competitions, seminars, nukkad naataks, institutional activities for students and youths. Families of martyrs were also honoured and felicitated under Krantiteerth. More such events are still being organized.

11. Digital Jyot campaign: Through a sky beam light installed in Central Park, Delhi, people paid their tributes to the sacrifices made by our Bravehearts. A website was created for people to pay their tributes digitally, and more approx. 97 lakh people paid their tributes.

12. Meri Maati Mera Desh: A program that connected Indians with their land, history, and heritage – fostering national pride and conservation of India’s cherished cultural heritage. More than 2.33 lakh Shilaphalakams have been built across 36 States/UTs till date. Almost 4 crore Panch Pran pledge selfies have been uploaded on website till date. More than 2 lakhs Braveheart felicitation programmes have been organized across the country. On 31st October, Hon’ble Prime Minister poured mitti in the Amrit Kalash, paying his tribute to the Bravehearts of our country.

13. Through the campaigns Qila aur Kahaniya and Wonder Caves, the contribution of India’s forts and caves to the freedom struggle were highlighted. Through Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, the contribution of Tribal freedom fighters was also highlighted, and commemorations were held in remembrance of freedom fighters.

14. Karpoori Thakur: Ministry of Culture celebrated the life and sacrifices of Karpoori Thakur ji on the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary on 24th January 2024. His contribution to freedom struggle and his honest public life as a politician were portrayed through an exhibition and a commemorative stamp and coin were released. On the eve of his birth centenary, the Government of India announced that Shri Karpoori Thakur Ji will be conferred with the Highest Civilian Honour, Bharat Ratna posthumously.

15. A Digital District Repository has been compiled to discover and document stories of people, events, and places linked to the freedom struggle of India at the micro level of the district. As on date, about 14500 stories have been compiled and uploaded on the portal. These stories are broadly classified under the heading – People & Personalities, Events & Happenings, Hidden treasures -Built & Natural Heritage, and Living Traditions & Art Forms.

All Ministries/Departments, State Governments, UTs and their Attached/Subordinate/Autonomous Bodies, PSUs etc. Incur the expenditure on the events organised by them from their respective budget heads and there is no separate budget for AKAM.

This information was given by Union Minister for Culture, Tourism And Development of North Eastern Region Shri G.Kishan Reddy in Lok Sabha today.

***

ARUN JAITLEY NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

The officer trainees of 31st batch of Probationers Training Course at the Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management called on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 5, 2024). These officers are from Indian Civil Accounts Service, Indian Defence Accounts Service and Indian P&T (Finance and Accounts) Service.

Addressing the officers, the President said that it is a well-known fact that a good public financial management system is the very basis of good governance. The organized financial services that they represent have the onus to build and maintain a financial management system that helps in carrying out efficient functioning of the government. Therefore, their role in administration is of immense importance as they have to ensure propriety and prudence in governance. She urged them to shoulder this responsibility with utmost sincerity by acquiring and utilizing their abilities.

The President said that they have joined at a time when the country is undergoing digital transformation. There is a rising expectation among the public for greater efficiency in service delivery, while ushering in transparency and accountability. To address these concerns, it is imperative for the government departments to make the best use of technology and make the governance system citizen-centric, efficient, and transparent. She said that their job is not only limited to the maximization of the utility of financial resources but also includes analysing the impact of policy changes and proposing reforms to improve the various systems of governance including the financial management systems. She advised them to keep pace with the world of ever-changing and advancing technology to undertake these tasks. She stated that their efforts and endeavours should be to devise mechanisms to use the latest technology and make our accounting and auditing systems seamless.

Please click here to see the President’s Speech –

Benefits of Working with NGO

Collaborating with a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) offers a multitude of benefits, both personally and professionally. Here are some key advantages of working with an NGO:

Fulfillment of Social Responsibility:
- Contributing to a cause: Working with an NGO allows you to actively participate in addressing social issues and contributing to positive change. It provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment as you align your efforts with a cause that resonates with your values.
Skill Development and Networking:
- Diverse roles and responsibilities: NGOs often operate with limited resources, providing opportunities to wear multiple hats and develop a broad skill set. You may find yourself involved in project management, fundraising, advocacy, communication, and more.
- Networking opportunities: Engaging with an NGO exposes you to a diverse network of individuals, including professionals, activists, and volunteers. Building these connections can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
Personal Growth and Learning:
- Exposure to real-world challenges: NGOs often work on the front lines of social issues, exposing you to the realities of the challenges faced by communities. This hands-on experience fosters personal growth, resilience, and adaptability.
- Continuous learning: Working with an NGO offers a dynamic environment where you are continually learning, adapting to new situations, and gaining a deeper understanding of social issues.
Global Perspective:
- Exposure to global issues: Many NGOs operate on an international scale, allowing you to gain insights into global challenges and solutions. This exposure broadens your perspective and fosters a more comprehensive understanding of diverse cultures and societies.
Advocacy and Impact:
- Platform for advocacy: NGOs often serve as platforms for advocating social change. By working with an NGO, you have the opportunity to amplify your voice and contribute to shaping policies and practices that impact communities.
- Tangible impact: NGOs are driven by a mission to create positive change. Being part of such an organization allows you to witness and contribute to tangible outcomes, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
Sense of Community and Belonging:
- Shared values: NGOs attract individuals who are passionate about similar causes. Working with like-minded people creates a sense of community and belonging, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
Professional Development and Resume Enhancement:
- Resume enrichment: Involvement with an NGO enhances your resume by showcasing your commitment to social responsibility and your ability to work in diverse and challenging environments.
- Leadership opportunities: NGOs often provide leadership roles, allowing you to develop and showcase your leadership skills, which can be valuable for future career advancement.
Positive Impact on Mental Health:
- Altruistic satisfaction: The sense of altruism gained from working with an NGO can positively impact mental well-being, providing a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction in your professional life.

In summary, collaborating with an NGO offers a holistic and enriching experience, providing not only professional growth but also the satisfaction of contributing to positive social change.

Two-Week Advanced Leadership Development Programme on Public Policy and Governance for Senior Civil Servants of the African Region in Delhi in partnership with MEA

The National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG), an apex-level autonomous institution of the Government of India, completed the Two-week Advanced Leadership Development Programme on Public Policy and Governance for Civil Servants of the African Region on 2-01-2024 that was organised for the first time by the centre. 34 senior officers from five African countries, Eritrea, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Gambia participated in the program. The participants included Mr. Tamsir Ann Presidential Advisor, Office of President, Government of Gambia, Mr. Mahat Abukar Yussuf Director Garissa County Government of Kenya, Mrs. Tumaini Luanda Mtetemela Principal Examination Officer University of Dododma Government of Tanzania, Mrs. Rahel Beyene Teklu Protocol Officer Ministry of Foreign Affairs Government of Eritrea, Mrs. Etmet Assefa Asamrie, Presiding Judge Federal Supreme Court of Ethiopia.

Shri V. Srinivas, Director General, National Centre for Good Governance & Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), addressed the valedictory session. The historic relationship between India and Africa and the efforts made under Prime Minister Modi to strengthen relations was presented. The valedictory session also discussed the Digital Public Infrastructure policies of India as a shared global public good for bringing citizens and government closer using technology, improving justice delivery systems in land administration, effective redressal of public grievances and the creation of a MyGov portal in Gambia with Indian collaboration. The delegates expressed the need to collaborate with various institutions of India which will help in providing people-centric governance to improve the quality of life of people in their respective country. They also requested to organize some more training programmes in future to Civil servants of African region having duration of two weeks.

Dr. A.P Singh, Course Coordinator and Associate Professor NCGG, gave the welcome address and provided a comprehensive overview of the two-week program, detailing the diverse topics covered during the training. The program includes sessions on Changing paradigms of governance, Aadhar : a tool for good governance, Land record modernization, GeM, Swamitva Scheme, Public-private partnerships, Climate change policies, Sustainable development goals among others. He also highlighted that the participants of the programme had the valuable opportunity to partake in exposure visits, which proved to augment their overall learning journey. Among the planned visits were the Ministry of Rural Development, DMRC, AIIMS, PM Sangrahalaya, and Taj Mahal among others.

The capacity-building program was supervised by Dr A.P Singh, Course Coordinator, Dr. Mukesh Bhandari, Associate Course Coordinator, Shri Sanjay Dutt Pant, Programme Assistant, and the dedicated capacity-building team of NCGG. The successful conduct of the 5-Nation Africa program represents a milestone for National Centre for Good Governance in its efforts as an apex capacity building institution for international civil servants under the ITEC program.

The Art of Writing: A Creative Odyssey

By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

Writing is more than just words on paper; it’s an art form that allows individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and imagination in a unique and captivating way. The art of writing is a dynamic and evolving process that involves creativity, discipline, and a deep understanding of language. In this article, we will explore the key elements of the art of writing and how aspiring writers can hone their craft.

Embrace Creativity:
At the heart of the art of writing is creativity. Allow your imagination to roam freely, breaking free from the constraints of reality. Create vivid worlds, intriguing characters, and compelling narratives that transport your readers to new realms. Embracing creativity means being open to unconventional ideas and finding inspiration in the mundane and extraordinary alike.
Master the Craft of Language:
Language is the painter’s palette, and words are the colors. Mastering the craft of language involves understanding the nuances of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. Develop a rich and varied vocabulary to paint detailed images with your words. Experiment with different writing styles, tones, and voices to discover your unique literary fingerprint.
Find Your Voice:
Every writer has a distinct voice that sets them apart. It’s the tone, style, and perspective that make your writing uniquely yours. Finding your voice requires self-discovery and a willingness to be authentic in your expression. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you discover the voice that feels most natural and resonant with your inner self.
Cultivate Discipline:
While creativity fuels the art of writing, discipline provides the structure. Set aside dedicated time for writing, establish goals, and stay committed to your craft. Discipline is the force that turns fleeting ideas into tangible stories. Whether it’s a daily writing routine or a structured timeline for completing projects, cultivating discipline is essential for consistent and meaningful output.
Edit and Revise:
The first draft is just the beginning. The true art of writing involves the meticulous process of editing and revising. Be prepared to scrutinize your work, refine your language, and polish your prose. Editing is where the raw material transforms into a polished masterpiece. Embrace feedback from others and be open to making necessary changes to enhance the overall impact of your writing.
Emotionally Connect with Your Audience:
Great writing is not just about conveying information; it’s about evoking emotions. Whether it’s laughter, tears, or contemplation, strive to emotionally connect with your audience. Infuse your writing with authenticity and vulnerability, allowing readers to relate to the human experience within your words.

Conclusion:
The art of writing is a dynamic and deeply personal journey. It involves a harmonious blend of creativity, language mastery, self-discovery, discipline, and emotional connection. Aspiring writers should approach their craft with a sense of wonder and a commitment to continuous growth. Through the art of writing, individuals have the power to inspire, challenge, and transport readers to new worlds, making it a truly transformative and timeless form of expression.

References

Raimes, A. (1998). Teaching writing. Annual review of applied linguistics, 18, 142-167.

Sharma, S. N. How to Write a Grant Proposal in an Effective Manner to get Projects.

Weigle, S. C. (2002). Assessing writing. Cambridge University Press.

Creating a Blogger theme based on another platform's theme, like Colinear for WordPress

Creating a Blogger theme based on another platform’s theme, like Colinear for WordPress, involves understanding the structure and design elements of the original theme and then adapting them to fit Blogger’s template system. While I can’t provide you with a fully functional Blogger theme here, I can guide you on how to get started.

Here are the general steps you can follow:

1. Understand Colinear Theme:

Visit the Colinear WordPress theme’s official page or documentation to understand its structure, features, and design elements. Note down key components like header, footer, sidebar, and main content area.

2. Set Up a New Blogger Blog:

If you don’t have a Blogger blog, create one. Go to Blogger and sign in with your Google account. Click on “Create a blog” to set up a new blog.

3. Access Blogger Theme Editor:

Once your blog is set up, go to the Blogger dashboard, and navigate to the “Theme” section.

4. Back Up Existing Theme:

Before making any changes, it’s a good practice to back up your existing Blogger theme. Click on the “Backup/Restore” button and download the current template.

5. Analyze Blogger Template Structure:

Familiarize yourself with the structure of the default Blogger template. Understand how it uses XML and widgets to define the layout.

6. Create HTML Structure:

Take the HTML structure from Colinear’s theme and modify it to fit Blogger’s XML format. Pay attention to the placement of widgets, headers, footers, and other key elements.

7. Add CSS Styles:

Blogger uses CSS for styling. Copy the CSS styles from Colinear’s theme and adapt them for Blogger. Ensure that the styling matches the HTML structure you created.

8. Customize Widgets:

Blogger uses widgets for various elements like the sidebar, header, and footer. Add and customize widgets based on the ones used in the Colinear theme.

9. Test Responsiveness:

Ensure that your Blogger theme is responsive. Test it on different devices and screen sizes to make sure it looks good everywhere.

10. Test Functionality:

Test all the functionality of your Blogger theme, including navigation, links, and any custom features.

11. Optimize for SEO:

Make sure your theme is optimized for search engines. Add relevant meta tags and descriptions.

12. Publish Your Theme:

Once you’re satisfied with your Blogger theme, click the “Apply to Blog” button to publish it.

Remember that creating a Blogger theme based on another platform’s theme requires careful consideration of the differences between the two platforms. Additionally, respect copyright and licensing terms if you’re using someone else’s design as a base.

Epic Explorer -Abd Al Razzaq

By Yoshika Sharma

India has experienced many foreign footsteps on its land , some were explorers , some came from the invading purpose. Ancient and mediveal India experienced a lot of such explorers , one of them was Abd Al Razzaq ( 1413 AD ) . Razzaq was from Persia ad was a scholar in the court of king of Persia , Mirza Shah rukh of Timrud Dynasty between 1405 AD – 1482 AD . Mirza wanted to send a messenger to India and so he appointed Razzaq , nbut Razzaq refused to go as he was afraid of travelling , but after many requests by Mirza , Razzaq agreed to comme to India .

Razzaq by road travelled from Herat to Hormuz and from Port of Hormuz he landed on the land of kozhikode , where he wanted to learn about the government and functioning of the area , but Razzaq was not allowed to meet the king for atleast 3 months and thus he thought of his mission as messenger was a failure. Just then the king of Vijaynagar empire Dev Raya II invited Razzaq to visit vijaynagar , Razzaq was welcomed at Hampi ( the capital of vijaynagar) and was surprised to see the architectural glory of the buildings of the city . The city had 7 concentric circular walls and at the centre was the huge miraculous palace of the king . The walls were made such that there were houses and farms between the first and second walls , market and coin making factories between the third and fourth walls . Razzaq was greatky welcomed by the king Dev Raya II . As Dev raya wanted to learn more about their government and functioning . As time passed Razzaq was one of the most favourite courtiers of Dev Raya , Dev Raya also gifted Razzaq mansion to live , soon this favouritism towards Razzaq was not excepted by other courtiers and resulting in spread of fake rumours claiming that Razzaq is a spy and not a messenger from Persia . These news spread like wildfire and finllay reached through the ears of king in which the king said that ” It had been asserted that you were not really sent here by Shah Rukh or else we would have shown you greater attention , if you come back on a future occasion into my territoies you shall meet with a worthy reception” ; by Dev Raya II ( from the book of Abd Al Razzaq . After which Razzaq was forced to flee vijaynagar and was sent back to Persia in 1445 . Razzaq the told all these happenings to Mirza Shah rukh and then he himself sent an official letter to Dev Raya II regarding the visit of Razzaq .

Razzaq ‘s experience as a traveller was great this experience made Razzaq a travel enthusiast from a reluctant traveller .

References

Hill, E. (1987). al-Sanhuri and Islamic law: the place and significance of Islamic law in the life and work of’Abd al-Razzaq Ahmad al-Sanhuri, Egyptian jurist and scholar 1895-1971.

Climate Impacts Awards: Unlocking urgent climate action by making the health effects of climate change visible

The aim of this scheme is to make the impacts of climate change on physical and mental health visible to drive urgent climate policy action at scale. We will fund transdisciplinary teams to deliver short-term, high-impact projects that maximise policy outcomes by combining evidence generation, policy analysis, engaged research approaches and communication strategies.

Career stage:: Mid-career researcher, Established researcher
Where your administering organisation is based:: Anywhere in the world (apart from mainland China)
Level of funding:: Up to £2.5 million
Duration of funding:: Up to 3 years

Next deadline

Full application deadline: 3 April 2024

View all key dates

About this scheme

In 2023, Wellcome launched the Climate Impacts Awards and funded 11 innovative global projects.

In 2024, we will fund projects that generate context-specific evidence using community knowledge and experiences to deliver actionable policy outcomes that can be scaled to multiple settings. We will prioritise funding for research that involves and serves the needs of communities most impacted by the health effects of climate change, and advances stories and narratives that tend to be absent in the media or underrepresented in public discourse (Perga et al, 2023). This will include generating and/or synthesising relevant data and insights (preferably across multiple sites or countries) on significant health issues arising from climate impacts.

We are looking for proposals with a clear theory of change and strong understanding of policy levers. Policy outcomes should be achievable within the award period, innovative in their design and should support meaningful and sustainable change. Proposals should describe the intended policy outcomes and how new insights and effective communication will influence these outcomes.

Teams must have prior demonstrable success in work that combines science, policy and society (Serrao-Neumann, et al 2021). We use the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition of transdisciplinary research. Transdiscipilary research combines knowledge from different scientific disciplines, citizens, public and private sector stakeholders to address complex societal challenges. By engaging key stakeholders from the outset and embedding different expertise in the research design, we expect that teams will use evidence and impactful narratives on the effects of climate change on health to drive urgent policy change that supports collaborative solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation.

This scheme aims to make the impacts of climate change on health visible. There are many reasons the impacts of climate change could be invisible.

These include but are not limited to:

distance: decision makers not being based where the impacts are happening
ideology: political polarisation results in missing voices, disinformation or lack of information
unseen: some of the climate impacts of environmental drivers of health outcomes (for example, certain chemicals, pollutants or microscopic organisms) may not be visible and therefore may be ignored
linkage: the links between climate change and health effects not being explicitly made or understood
low priority: climate change’s effects on health are not given much focus due to competing priorities, unconvincing analyses and communications challenges.

Motivation for this scheme

Proposals that this funding will support

Eligibility and suitability

Who can apply, who can’t apply, what’s expected of your organisation

About you

You can apply for this award if you are a team leader who wants to advance transdisciplinary research on the impacts of climate change on health.

As the lead applicant, you will be expected to:

have experience leading transdisciplinary teams and working in the science-policy-society interface
have prior experience of research engaging with policy partners
have knowledge brokering skills such as the ability to bring together research teams and impacted communities
actively promote a diverse, inclusive and supportive environment within your team and across your organisation.

Your team can include researchers from any discipline (natural, physical and social sciences as well as technology) but must be transdisciplinary (using the OECD definition) and include expertise in policy, public engagement and communications. In addition to strong health expertise, we are particularly interested in teams that can demonstrate strong climate expertise.

During your award we expect you to:

fill an important evidence gap where the data and insights generation and/or synthesis could help drive urgent action
work across a transdisciplinary team involving researchers, policymakers, communicators, and other key stakeholders including impacted communities
co-develop and co-produce evidence to fill the identified gap with the involvement of impacted populations and communities (Vargas et al, 2022)
deliver a public engagement and communications strategy that embeds key stakeholders within the design and maximises the intended policy outcomes
provide evidence that can help support collaborative solutions to drive urgent climate action.

The award will be held by a lead applicant from an eligible administering institution, on behalf of a team of coapplicants.

At the time of submission the lead applicant:

must be able to demonstrate that they have a permanent, open-ended, or long-term rolling contract for the duration of the award
must be able to contribute at least 20% of their time to this award
must be based at an eligible administering organisation that can sign up to Wellcome’s grant conditions
can only be a lead applicant on one application to this scheme. Lead applicants can be included as a coapplicant on one other application, but they must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient capacity for both projects if funded.

Wellcome cannot make awards to teams with co-lead applicants.

Coapplicants

Can be based anywhere in the world (apart from mainland China).
Must be able to contribute at least 20% of their time to this project.
Must be essential for delivery of the proposed project and provide added value to the team. For example designing the research, writing the application, providing training, knowledge brokering or managing the programme.
Must have a guarantee of workspace from their organisation for the duration of the award.
Must be based at an eligible organisation that can sign up to Wellcome’s grant conditions.
Must include in-country policy actors and/or practitioners, civil servants, private sector, civil society actors.
Do not need to have a permanent, open-ended, or long-term rolling contract at their organisation.
Can be at any career stage (please clearly outline the career stage of all coapplicants in the application). We would encourage research teams to consist of at least 1 early-career stage researcher.
Coapplicants can be listed on a maximum of two applications only.

Your application can have a maximum of 7 coapplicants. Lead applicants should ensure that each coapplicant provides added value to the team in terms of the expertise and experience outlined in the criteria.

The team

Team members (coapplicants, staff, consultants) must combine researchers from different disciplines, policymakers, community stakeholder representatives and/or engagement experts. We are looking for transdisciplinary teams that can demonstrate strong health as well as climate expertise (particularly climate and meteorological science).

Additional expertise could span across:

specific sectors (for example, housing or agriculture)
economics
political science
private sector
public engagement
media or communications.

Your team should be able to demonstrate:

a history of collaborating together and successfully delivering projects among members of the team
a strong record of working in climate change and health research
a strong record of working with communities most affected by climate change
a strong record of working in collaboration with policymakers or decision makers involved in delivering climate solutions
experience designing and planning research projects with major policy implications
experience designing and delivering communications and/or public engagement activities, co-produced with impacted communities and key stakeholders with clear policy impact.

We will be looking across the team (including lead applicant and coapplicants) for the criteria identified on this page.

Administering organisations

The lead applicant must be based at an eligible administering organisation that can sign up to Wellcome’s grant conditions (can be based in any country apart from mainland China). The project must have a lead applicant based in all countries where the research activities are taking place.

Eligible administering organisations for the proposal can be:

higher education institutions
research institutes
non-academic healthcare organisations
not-for-profit or non-governmental organisations

One organisation can submit multiple different applications.

What’s expected of the administering organisation:

Any eligible organisation must sign up to Wellcome’s grant conditions and grant funding policies.
We expect organisations based in the UK to meet the responsibilities required by the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers [PDF] for institutions, managers and researchers. Any organisation with Wellcome funding that is based outside the UK is expected, at a minimum, to follow the principles of this Concordat.

We also expect your administering organisation to:

give you, and any staff employed on the grant, at least 10 days a year (pro rata if part-time) to undertake training and continuing professional development (CPD) in line with the Concordat. This should include the responsible conduct of research, research leadership, people management, diversity and inclusion, and the promotion of a healthy research culture
provide a system of onboarding, embedding and planning for you when you start the award
provide you with the status and benefits of other staff of similar seniority
if your administering organisation is a core-funded research organisation, this award should not replace or lead to a reduction in existing or planned core support.

Time spent away from research and part-time working

You can apply if you’ve been away from research (for example, a career break, maternity leave or long-term sick leave). We’ll allow for this when we consider your application. Lead and coapplicants can be part-time. There is no formal minimum, but part-time working needs to be compatible with delivering the proposal successfully.

Inclusive research design

The proposed research should be equitable, diverse and inclusive in a way that is appropriate to the place in which the research is conducted and the aims of the research or other activities.

This should focus on:

Who defines and does the research: we expect our partners to demonstrate to us that their research community has substantive input from, and engagement with, the primary end users or subjects of their research, be they patients, participants or policymakers.
How the research is done: we expect our partners to demonstrate to us that their research agenda and the design and conduct of their research substantively engages with the needs and values of the people and communities who are participating in, or are the subject of, their research.
Who benefits from the research: Wellcome already has a commitment to focusing on those most affected by our health challenges. Accordingly, we expect our research partners to be able to demonstrate within their research and activity plans that their outputs will be made meaningfully accessible and used by those who most need it and, if appropriate, those who participated in the research.

Who can’t apply

You cannot apply if you intend to carry out activities that involve the transfer of grant funds into mainland China.

Other Wellcome awards

An early-career researcher can be a lead applicant on one Wellcome award and a coapplicant on one other Wellcome award, or a coapplicant on two Wellcome awards.
A mid-career researcher can be a lead applicant on one Wellcome award and a coapplicant on two other Wellcome awards, or a coapplicant on three Wellcome awards.
An established researcher can be:
- a lead applicant on two Wellcome awards, one as the sole applicant and one as lead applicant for a team, or both as the lead applicant for a team. They can also be a coapplicant on two other Wellcome awards; or
- a lead applicant on one Wellcome award, as the sole applicant or lead for a team, and a co-applicant on three other Wellcome awards; or
- a coapplicant on four Wellcome awards.

The awards should be for different research projects, with no overlap in work packages.

Resubmissions

For teams that were shortlisted in the 2023 Climate Impacts Awards, we will only accept resubmissions if there are significant amendments to the application based on the feedback provided.

About your proposal

What is in scope and full application assessment criteria

Wellcome’s Climate & Health team will continue to modify the award each year, guided by learnings and insights from the past year and broader trends in the climate and health space. What is in/out of scope this year may not be the same in subsequent years, as well as the remit and criteria.

In scope

Proposals where the primary focus is on the current or future direct and environmentally mediated physical or mental health outcomes attributable to climate change (Haines & Ebi 2019 for definitions), making the health effects of climate change visible.
Proposals that include the four key elements of:
1. an evidence gap that can be filled in the short time available
2. a clear policy pathway
3. engaged research approach with key stakeholders identified
4. a communications strategy that can drive change.

Out of scope

Proposals where the primary focus is on:
- Socially mediated health effects (such as migration and livelihoods) – we are aware that all health outcomes have a social context but are looking for research where environmentally driven aspects of climate change are the primary driver(s) of a given health outcome.
- Current or future health effects attributable to the consequences of climate change action (mitigation or adaptation). Wellcome is not looking to fund research on these unintended consequences of maladaptation through this award. We may consider funding opportunities on those topics in the future.
- Current or future health effects attributable to the drivers of climate change (for example, fossil fuel emissions).
Proposals where the goal of the project is general advocacy for a specific issue, rather than specific policy opportunities that can be achieved in a realistic timeframe through targeted and co-produced evidence and communications activities.
Proposals where the four key elements are not articulated.
Proposals submitted in the first round of the scheme that were not shortlisted.
Proposals that were shortlisted in the first round that have not undergone major revision.

How applications will be assessed

Applications will be triaged internally at Wellcome with expert methods advisors. Shortlisted applications will be submitted for review by the Funding Advisory Committee which will make funding recommendations to Wellcome’s Climate & Health team. The team will use these as a basis for final funding decisions. The total number of projects we fund through this award will depend on several factors, such as the number and quality of applications received.

Wellcome has a preference for proposals focused on policy outcomes informed by communities most impacted by climate change in both HICs and LMICs. Wellcome does not have a preference for single or multi-country studies but does have a preference for proposals that aim to demonstrate the scale of the problem and the potential for climate action at scale.

There is no preference for proposals that generate new data versus synthesise available data. Data should be managed/collected following the FAIR Guiding Principles for scientific data management and stewardship.

The Funding Advisory Committee will assess applications based on the following criteria:

Theory of change (25%):

Problem articulation: ability to articulate the problem and identify the evidence gap. For example, if your proposal outlines a solution/s, guided by policy analysis and insight. Clarity about the policy opportunity and implications of the proposed activities.
Potential to have policy impact in the timeframe of the award. For example, is this work scalable or transferable?
Evidence of demand for this research.
Relevance of the proposed work in driving context-specific climate action.

Approach and methods (50%):

The quality, innovation and mix of methodologies proposed. For example, is the presented theoretical and conceptual framework informed by different perspectives (such as natural sciences, social sciences, epidemiological analysis, economic analysis, political analysis and climate sciences).
- Justification for the chosen methods, including qualitative and quantitative work packages.
Relevance and innovation of the proposed communication strategy. For example, the ability to communicate the policy opportunity, implications of the proposed activities and engagement with key stakeholders.
The approach to engaged research:
- Clear identification and justification of key stakeholders and impacted communities’ involvement (for example, local, or national governments, civil society, community-based organisations, international or multilateral organisations, private sector, local or national government).
- Evidence of stakeholders and impacted communities contributing to the research design and research questions and their involvement is clearly shown throughout the lifespan of the proposed activities. For example, if the project responds to the needs, interests and capacities of the stakeholders and impacted communities.
- The engagement methods and framework that will be used and how these are integrated and beneficial to the wider ambitions of the project.
Monitoring and evaluation to track and assess the results of planned activities throughout the lifetime of the project.

Team, skill and experience (25%):

Transdisciplinary teams: the team composition includes an appropriate combination of individuals and organisations with the capacity, skills and experience to deliver the project and its intended outcomes. Outline how your team will work across the science-policy-society interface and has expertise in climate and health.
Successful partnerships: evidence of a history of working together and using a transdisciplinary approach.
Evidence that the team has the relevant expertise to deliver the approach and methods outlined. For example, triallists, policy analysis, policy practice, engagement practices and communication strategies.
Evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. For example, your approach to recruiting a diverse team and how you will promote inclusion of members in the research and outputs produced.
Clear articulation of what a positive research culture is and how teams will foster this through their future work.

The maximum word count for the programme of work description is 3,000 words.

Applicants do not need to submit ethics approval to the administering organisation by the deadline but should give some consideration to potential ethical issues that may arise through the proposed work in the application.

Please provide any relevant links including publications, websites, social media and videos. We advise you to use links strategically, and be sure to include all of the crucial information in the text of the application as the reviewers are not required to go through each link. Any links must be written out in full URL format.

How to apply

Stages of application

1. Before you apply

Make sure you read everything on this page.
Get some tips to help you write your grant application.
You do not need to contact us before you write and submit your application.
Register to join one of our webinars:
- 5 Feb 2024 9:00 UTC, Applying to the Climate Impacts Awards
- 12 Feb 2024 12:00 UTC, Making the health effects of climate change visible
- You can submit questions ahead of these webinars on Slido. We will be going through the application process during the webinar on 5 February and will be having a panel discussion on the topic of the awards on 12 February. We will make recordings of these webinars available.

2. Submit your application to your administering organisation for approval

Complete your application on Wellcome Funding.
View the sample application form.
Submit it to the ‘authorised organisational approver’ at your administering organisation for approval. Make sure you leave enough time for the approver to review and submit your application before the deadline. The approver may ask you to make changes to your application.

3. Administering organisation reviews your application and submits it to us

Your application must be submitted by 17:00 BST on the deadline day.

4. Shortlisting

Shortlisting will be carried out internally as the application assessment criteria outlines above.

5. Funding decision

An external expert committee will make funding recommendations to us based on which we will make final funding decisions.
You will receive an email notification of the funding decision soon after the decision has been made.
The reasons for a decision will be provided to unsuccessful applicants in writing.

Start your application

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

Rate this:

References

Rate this:

1. Understand Colinear Theme:

2. Set Up a New Blogger Blog:

3. Access Blogger Theme Editor:

4. Back Up Existing Theme:

5. Analyze Blogger Template Structure:

6. Create HTML Structure:

7. Add CSS Styles:

8. Customize Widgets:

9. Test Responsiveness:

10. Test Functionality:

11. Optimize for SEO:

12. Publish Your Theme:

Rate this:

References

Rate this:

Next deadline

Next deadline

About this scheme

Motivation for this scheme

Proposals that this funding will support

Eligibility and suitability

Who can apply, who can’t apply, what’s expected of your organisation

About you

Coapplicants

The team

Administering organisations

Time spent away from research and part-time working

Who can’t apply

Other Wellcome awards

Resubmissions

About your proposal

What is in scope and full application assessment criteria

In scope

Out of scope

How applications will be assessed

Theory of change (25%):

Approach and methods (50%):

Team, skill and experience (25%):

How to apply

Stages of application

1. Before you apply

2. Submit your application to your administering organisation for approval

3. Administering organisation reviews your application and submits it to us

4. Shortlisting

5. Funding decision

Rate this:

References

Rate this: