The Chairperson of National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM), Prof. Maneesha Kothekar, today launched CCRAS SPARK 5.0 and CCRAS Ayurshodh 2026 (2nd circular) of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS). The initiatives aim to strengthen the research ecosystem in Ayurveda by encouraging research among undergraduate students and recognising scholarly excellence, research communication and innovation.

CCRAS SPARK 5.0

The Studentship Program for Ayurveda Research Ken (SPARK) 5.0 for 2026-27 is the fifth edition of the programme. It seeks to introduce undergraduate Ayurveda students to research methodology and techniques through short-term independent research projects, and to foster research aptitude, analytical thinking and early interest in research as a career among BAMS students.

• A total of 300 studentships are being offered, with a studentship amount of ₹50,000.
• BAMS students in their third/fourth/professional years studying in NCISM/Government of India-recognised colleges or universities are eligible.
• Registration opens on 15 October 2026. The last date for submission of applications is 15 November 2026.

CCRAS Ayurshodh – National Research Recognitions

CCRAS Ayurshodh provides a platform to recognise and encourage research contributions in Ayurveda across three categories:

• CCRAS-Prabodh 3MT: Communication of research through three-minute thesis presentations.
• CCRAS-Prakash: Recognition of scholarly achievements through publications based on original research.
• CCRAS-Navonmesha: Recognition of innovative prototypes, novel solutions, process innovations and transformative research methodologies.

The second circular details the awards, including prize money sponsored by Shree Dhootapapeshwar Limited. The finals of CCRAS Ayurshodh are scheduled for 11 December 2026.

Prof. (Vaidya) Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS; Dr. Ranjit Puranik, MD and CEO, Shree Dhootapapeshwar Limited; Presidents of various NCISM boards and heads of CCRAS institutes across the country were present on the occasion.

The initiatives are intended to nurture emerging research talent, promote effective research communication, encourage quality scholarly publications and foster innovative approaches to advancing Ayurveda research.

Further information is available at the following links:

• CCRAS SPARK 5.0: https://spark.ccras.org.in/
• CCRAS Ayurshodh: https://ayurshodh.ccras.org.in/

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