DBT Call for Proposals 2026 and Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi

The DBT Call for Proposals 2026 is now open for researchers aiming to revolutionize the mushroom industry in the North Eastern Region (NER) of India. This initiative by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) seeks to unlock the massive economic and scientific potential of indigenous mushroom species. Consequently, this program serves as a critical bridge between traditional knowledge and modern biotechnological interventions.

Educators and research scholars can now submit innovative projects that address cultivation challenges and value-chain development. Furthermore, the grant focuses on empowering rural communities through sustainable agricultural diversification and scientific discovery.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	Harnessing the Potential of Northeastern Mushrooms
Organizing Institution	Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology
Project Duration	Initially 3 Years
Application Deadline	24 January 2026
Mode of Submission	Online via eProMIS Portal
Geographic Focus	North Eastern Region (NER) of India

Program Overview

The primary objective of this call is to transform the mushroom diversity of the North East into a globally recognized scientific and economic asset. Specifically, the DBT aims to fund Research & Development initiatives that enhance cultivation practices and produce high-value nutraceutical products.

Mushroom cultivation in the NER offers a sustainable solution for rural farmers, providing them with new avenues for income and employment. By integrating advanced biotechnology, the program intends to build a resilient future for local communities while fostering global scientific breakthroughs.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure high-impact research, the DBT has defined specific eligibility requirements for applicants:

• Principal Investigators: Scientists and faculty members working in regular positions at recognized Universities, Academic Institutions, or Research Laboratories.
• NER Participation: Proposals from institutions outside the NER are only eligible if they collaborate with NER-based scientists as the Main PIs.
• Track Record: Applicants must demonstrate relevant research experience, evidenced by high-quality publications in SCI-indexed journals.
• Exclusions: Private profit-making agencies, industries, and startups are not eligible to apply under this specific program.

Curriculum & Research Verticals

The scope of the research proposals should strictly align with the following three subareas:

Advancement of Cultivation Technology

This vertical focuses on developing short-duration cultivation techniques for economically significant mushroom species. In addition, researchers should work on substrate innovation using locally available materials and effective pest management strategies tailored to the NER environment.

Nutraceuticals and Therapeutic Validation

Projects in this category involve metabolite profiling, clinical studies, and allergenicity assessments. The goal is to validate the medicinal properties of Northeastern mushrooms for the development of food-fortification products.

Value Addition and Post-Harvest Management

This area seeks modern processing solutions, including freeze-drying technologies and improved packaging systems. Consequently, these innovations will enhance the shelf-life and marketability of mushroom-based products.

Learning Outcomes

Participants and institutions engaging in this project will achieve the following:

• Development of scalable and sustainable mushroom production models.
• Identification of high-potency bioactive compounds from indigenous species.
• Establishment of robust value chains for rural economic empowerment.
• Enhanced scientific data on the biodiversity of the Himalayan region.

Registration Details

Requirement	Details
Application Portal	click here
Last Date to Apply	24 January 2026
Registration Fee	Nil (Grant Application)
Selection Process	Peer review based on scientific merit and PI competence

Contact Information

For technical queries regarding the eProMIS portal or project guidelines, applicants may contact:

• Coordinator: Dr. Suraksha S. Diwan, Scientist ‘F’
• Email: nerdiv@dbt.nic.in
• Phone: 011-24665100
• Address: Department of Biotechnology, CGO Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can an institution from Delhi apply for this grant?
Yes, institutions from outside the North East can apply, but only in collaboration with a scientist from the NER who must serve as the Main Principal Investigator.

What is the duration of the funding for the DBT Call for Proposals 2026?
The projects are initially supported for a duration of three years, subject to periodic performance reviews.

Is it mandatory to have SCI-indexed publications to apply?
Yes, the DBT requires evidence of relevant research experience through high-quality publications in SCI-indexed journals.

How should I submit the proposal?
All proposals must be submitted online through the eProMIS portal under the “NER Programme” section. Hard copies are generally not required unless specified during the later stages.

What are the priority areas for this call?
The priorities include cultivation technology, spawn development, nutraceutical validation, and post-harvest value addition.