Popular science books play an important role in enhancing public understanding and appreciation of science by conveying complex scientific concepts in simpler, more engaging ways. We are keen to see more public science books in the limelight!

Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology (FAST India) is pleased to launch the second edition of the India Science Book Fellowship for scientists, science writers, communicators and for anyone interested in writing a popular science book in non-fiction!

FAST India is pleased to have join our mission to promote science books in India as a partner and a funder for one of the shortlisted fellows.

Apply Here!

Here are some themes you could consider:

  • Personal accounts of journeys in scientific research and their impact on the field and society.
  • Demystifying latest scientific inventions and discoveries.
  • Stories about the impact of science and technology on society.
  • Exciting stories of Indian scientists and their contributions.
  • The history of science in India.
  • The intersection of science, culture, economics, and society.

Key fellowship features

Financial grant of Rs 10 Lakhs

Payable in four installments over a period of one year. 

Feedback & support

Feedback from world-class experts including publishers, science authors & bestselling authors & focus group consisting of individuals from the book’s target audience.

Support in publishing 

Support in publishing the manuscript by a publishing house.

Network and promotion

Opportunity to participate in book launch events as part of promotions to improve their visibility.

Meet The Judges

Janhavi Phalkey

Author, Filmmaker and Historian

Karthik Venkatesh

Executive Editor at Penguin Random House India

Luis Miranda

Chairman, Centre for Civil Society & Co-founder ISPP

Gagandeep Kang

Director at Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Meet The Mentors

Janhavi Phalkey

Author, Filmmaker and Historian

Karthik Venkatesh

Executive Editor at Penguin Random House India

Gagandeep Kang

Director at Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Eligibility

  • Anyone based in India who is interested in writing a book based on science and technology can apply for the fellowship.

  • Applicants can apply as an individual or as a team. However, the Lead applicant should be based in India and will be responsible for administering the fellowship to their collaborator.

Application process

  • Interested applicants are requested to sign up here to receive regular updates about the India Science Book Fellowship. Our application form and timelines will be released shortly.

  • In the meanwhile, please go through our Frequently Asked Questions and Terms & Conditions for the India Science Book Fellowship.

Timelines

   
Sign up form opens 7th October 2024
Application form for Book Abstracts open 21st October 2024
Application form for Book Abstracts close 22nd November 2024
Internal Shortlisting 23rd November to 3rd December 2024
Shortlisted candidates contacted by FAST India 6th December 2024
Deadline for shortlisted candidates to send detailed proposals 31st January 2025
Internal review + Review and interviews by Fellowship Jury 1st February – 28th February 2025
Announcement of Fellows 1st week March 2025

Informational webinar on the India Science Book Fellowship 

Hear from experts on the art of science writing, book publishing and the quest for knowledge and sensemaking!

Have some queries about the application process?

Terms and Conditions

  • All interested applicants are required to go through the India Science Book Fellowship – Terms and Conditions.
  • Selected Fellows understand and agree that they will enter into a formal contract with FAST India and/or its assigned parties detailing the terms and conditions for the India Science Book Fellowship.
  • By applying for the India Science Book Fellowship (by FAST India), all Candidates agree to unconditionally comply with the Terms and Conditions set out herein.
  • Failure to comply with these Terms and Conditions shall lead to immediate disqualification of the Candidates.
Our Supporters
Meet the Patrons

Prof K Vijay Raghavan
Chair, Board of Advisors, FAST India

“We need a community writing on science from every perspective . Through this fellowship, FAST India could stimulate the creation of a cohort of high quality science writers in India, encouraging them to careers in a relatively unexplored but a very exciting and important field”.

Ashish Dhawan
Co-Founder, FAST India

“There is enormous potential to expand the discourse around science in the public domain and mainstream public science books to engage and inspire. This innovative initiative by FAST-India encourages Indian scientists, journalists, writers and science enthusiasts to share their unique stories and expertise with the world.”

Varun Aggarwal
Co-Founder, FAST India

“Stephen Hawking’s books got scientists and science into the public imagination big time… We need to do the same for Indian science and scientists. Indian scientists have a unique story to tell not only to Indians, but the world. The time is NOW”

Abhishek Goel
Co-Founder and CEO, Cactus Communications

“Just as generations of scientists were inspired by the Origin of Species, or by Cosmos – we are hoping the next generation of Indian students will be inspired to push the boundaries of discovery through science books written in India, by Indian scientists and science communicators. The Book Fellowship is a step towards achieving that goal.”