The Ministry of AYUSH has launched SPARK-4.0, the latest edition of its national studentship program designed to nurture young minds in Ayurveda research.
The initiative, formally known as the Studentship Program for Ayurveda Research Ken (SPARK), is spearheaded by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS). The program aims to inspire undergraduate students of Ayurveda (BAMS) to develop a scientific approach toward traditional medicine through short-term research projects.
Announcing the program, a senior AYUSH official said,
“SPARK-4.0 is not just a funding scheme; it’s a platform to encourage curiosity, creativity, and confidence in future Ayurveda researchers. We want our students to think beyond textbooks and engage with real-world evidence.”
Under this fourth edition, 300 BAMS students from colleges recognized by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) will be selected across India. Each participant will receive ₹50,000 as a research studentship — ₹25,000 per month for two months — to carry out independent or mentored research projects.
Applications for SPARK-4.0 will open on October 15, 2025, and close on November 15, 2025. Selected students will be guided by senior faculty or researchers from CCRAS institutes and partner Ayurveda colleges.
The AYUSH Ministry has highlighted that SPARK has already made a significant impact — with over 590 students from 289 institutions in 20 states benefitting from previous editions. Many of these projects have reportedly contributed to improving clinical methodologies and herbal drug validation in Ayurveda.
The selected students will receive a certificate of recognition upon successful completion and approval of their project reports.
“The goal is to shape a new generation of Ayurveda researchers who can combine ancient wisdom with modern scientific rigor,” the official added.
By promoting research-oriented learning at the undergraduate level, SPARK-4.0 is expected to strengthen India’s AYUSH research ecosystem and position Ayurveda as a credible, evidence-based healthcare system for the future.