Q1. What is AWSAR?

A1. The AWSAR stands for “Augmenting Writing Skills for Articulating Research”, which is an initiative to disseminate Indian research stories among the masses in a format that's easy to understand and interesting for a lay reader. Under this initiative, PhD and post-doctoral scholars in science and technology streams would be encouraged to write at least one popular science story during the tenancy of their scholarship, and to participate in a national competition.

Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for applying for AWSAR?

A2. Indian citizen pursuing PhD or PDF in any stream of Science and Technology (S&T), within the tenancy of respective fellowship can apply.

Q3. What would be the selection criteria for judging the entries?

A3. The following will be the criteria for judging the entries:

1. The entries will be judged on the basis of accuracy, clarity, insightfulness, and resourcefulness.
2. The entries should convincingly Awer the questions such as why does the research matter? Does the story explain the writer’s research in a way that is easy to comprehend? Is it a compelling read? etc.
3. The judgement will be done by a panel of science writers and scientists selected by Department of Science and Technology.

Q4. Who are the judges?

A4. A panel consisting of eminent scientists and science communicators, constituted by DST would evaluate the entries

Q5. What is the award amount?

A5. The following are the award categories:

1. For PhD scholars:
   1. 1 st prize: ₹1,00,000 (one), 2 nd prize: ₹50,000 (one), 3 rd prize:   25,000 (one)
   2. 100 selected entries:   10,000 each
2. For Post Doc fellows:
   1. One outstanding story:   1,00,000
   2. 20 selected entries:   10,000 each

Q6. What are the subject areas covered under AWSAR Program?

A6. Any subject under Science and Technology (S&T) are covered under AWSAR Program.

Q7. Is AWSAR accept only the scholars from "Science background"?

A7. Yes

Q8. Is there any age limit to apply for AWSAR to qualify for the award?

A8. No

Q9. Can I submit my technical research paper?

A9. No, Only popular science stories based on your research paper is accepted.

Q10. I am an Indian citizen enrolled in PhD program of foreign university? Can I apply for AWSAR Award?

A10. No, Scholars enrolled in PhD program of Indian University can only apply.

Q11. When will be the award function of AWSAR?

A11. Tentatively the AWSAR Award Function will be held on National Science Day (28th February), every year.

Q12. What is Popular Science Story?

A12. Writing on science and technology in a layman language is known as popular science writing. To understand such writings, no specialized study of S&T is required to the reader. Readers of popular science writing are general public. Research papers have jargon of highly scientific and technical terms which could be understood by only those people who are engaged in research. But in popular science writing, the writer diffuses scientific concept in a very easy to understand style and language.

Q13. Is there any provision for workshop to write popular Science story?

A13. Yes, the organisation will conduct several workshops across the Country. The schedule for workshop will be informed in due course of time.

Q14. I am pursuing my PhD as in-service candidate. Am I eligible for submitting my popular research story for this award?

A14. Yes

Q15. I am a foreign national, pursuing my PhD from India. Am I eligible for this AWARD?

A15. No, Only Indian nationals are eligible for this Award.

Q16. I am in 1st year of my PhD, Can I submit my story for this Award?

A16. No. PhD scholars should be registered at least for two years.

Q17. My PhD research has been completed but have not published any research paper. Am I eligible for this Award?

A17. Yes, you are eligible but the preference will be given, who has published research paper from his/her study

Q18. Can I submit my story in regional languages other than English & Hindi?

A18. No, for the time being entries are invited only in English & Hindi.

Q19. I am a part time PhD scholar. Am I eligible for this Award?

A19. Yes

Q20. Can I submit more than one story?

A20. No

Q21. Is there any registration fee?

A21. The Awards are free to register.

Q22. Can I submit my review story on ongoing research?

A22. No

Q23. Who will be the owner of awarded stories?

A23. Copyright Awarded stories lies with Vigyan Prasar and DST.

Q24. Where can I see the examples of popular science stories?

A24. Some of the examples of stories are available on our website.

Q25. I have a question that is not in this FAQs page, whom should I contact?

A25. Send your inquiries to connect.awsar@gmail.com.

Q26. Will I receive confirmation of my registration?

A26. Yes, A confirmation will be sent on your registered email-id (Only for Online registration).

Q27. What is the word limit for the story?

A27. The word limit for the popular science story will be in between 1000-1500 words.

Q28. How do I know whether my story is selected for an award?

A28. The name of the authors of the selected stories will be announced on the AWSAR website.

Q29. Do you accept submission of story after the closing date?

A29. Submission of story will be accepted only in given time period.

Q30. Can I submit abstract/gist/brief/highlight of my research for AWSAR award?

A30. No, full length article (in popular format, within the prescribed word limit) explains about your research should be submitted.