The Department of Science and Technology (DST) invites concept note under ‘Science and Technology of Yoga and Meditation (SATYAM)’ for the appropriate intervention of yoga and meditation to fight against COVID-19 and another similar kind of viruses. This special call aims to assist the society in today’s critical condition that arises due to pandemic COVID-19. Since this is a need-based call; therefore, the proposed work should be completed within 6-12 months.
Teams of scientists, clinicians and experienced practitioners of yoga and meditation who have proven track record in the field of yoga and meditation research are encouraged to submit concept notes so that a large section of the society can be served with appropriate practices. The concept note should cover aims and objectives of proposed work, existing literature, methodology, expected outcome, budget requirement and details of host institutions along with detailed biodata of principal investigator with latest publications included in scientific journal databases.
According to DST press note, the project may address improving immunity, improving respiratory system and interventions to overcome respiratory disorders like COPD, stress, anxiety and depression-related issues due to isolation, uncertainty, disruptions in normal life, among others.
The proposal will aim to compile existing knowledge, protocols and best practices in the areas mentioned above available in Yoga and meditation in SCI only publications and make a critical assessment of the same based on the scientific evidence and analyses provided in these publications. This should also include a component of dissemination of knowledge in society through appropriate media.
The purpose will be, to develop specific protocols and modules of yoga and meditation in the above-mentioned areas based strictly on scientific approach with proper documentation. Existing protocols can also be refined or reframed given COVID-19.
Short duration pilot study can be proposed based on previous experience in above-mentioned areas by a team of scientists, clinicians and practitioners. The research needs to be scientifically designed, documented, open to scrutiny and employ scientific tools for validation or falsification.
As this would be short term pilot projects to combat or mitigate the effect of COVID-19 in society; therefore, the project duration will be up to 12 months with a maximum budget of 15 lakhs. Proposal of more than one year duration in related areas can be submitted in existing open call of SATYAM at e-PMS (onlinedst.gov.in).
The concept note may be submitted at ePMS (onlinedst.gov.in) till 30 April 2020 in ‘SATYAM-Special Call’. A soft copy of concept note should also be emailed at vandana.singh@nic.in. There is no need to send hard copy of this proposal.
