Grishma 2026 at IIT Kharagpur offers UG students hands-on research experience; apply for internship here
In a significant initiative aimed at enhancing research exposure among undergraduate students, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has launched the 2026 edition of GRISHMA (Undergraduate Summer Research Program). This program provides students from various institutions across India the opportunity to engage in hands-on, faculty-mentored research.
Overview of GRISHMA
GRISHMA is designed to introduce undergraduate students to the practice of scientific and scholarly inquiry. Participants will have the chance to work within faculty-led research groups across diverse disciplines, including:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Medicine
- Humanities
The program emphasizes the development of essential skills such as formulating research questions, investigating real-world problems, and effectively communicating findings. These skills are crucial for students’ future academic and professional success.
Eligibility and Key Dates
The GRISHMA program is open to undergraduate students from institutions other than IIT Kharagpur, provided they demonstrate strong academic performance and a clear interest in research. Here are the key dates for the program:
- Application Window: April 5 – April 18, 2026
- Program Duration: May 16 – June 26, 2026
- Total Duration: 8 weeks
With a competitive selection process, GRISHMA aims to bring together motivated students eager to explore research as a potential career pathway.
Fellowship and Support
To ensure accessibility for all selected candidates, known as GRISHMA Fellows, the program offers financial assistance of up to Rs 22,000 per month. This fellowship is structured to cover:
- Hostel accommodation
- Meals
- Travel expenses
- Contingencies
The financial support is disbursed on a daily pro-rata basis, depending on participation. This allows students to fully immerse themselves in their research experience without financial constraints.
KRITI: Building a Research Ecosystem
GRISHMA is part of a larger initiative known as KRITI (Knowledge, Research, and Innovation for Transformative Impact), which is IIT Kharagpur’s flagship program aimed at nurturing future innovators. KRITI serves as a comprehensive platform that supports learners at various stages of their academic journey, from school students to early-career researchers and educators.
Built on the premise that curiosity, when guided effectively, can lead to meaningful discoveries, KRITI creates structured opportunities for academic immersion, mentored research, and collaborative learning. The platform encompasses a wide range of programs, including:
- i-KITES and RISE for school-level engagement
- GRISHMA for undergraduate research
- Advanced initiatives such as THESES, CRAFT, KERNEL, and CREATE for higher-level scholarly development
Through this continuum, KRITI aims to cultivate a sustained culture of inquiry and innovation, aligning with IIT Kharagpur’s vision of being “Dedicated to the Service of the Nation.” By enabling early exposure to research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, KRITI contributes to building a robust national research ecosystem and prepares students to engage with global scientific and academic communities.
Application Process
Students interested in applying to the GRISHMA program can visit the official website of KRITI or reach out via email at contact.kriti@iitkgp.ac.in for further details. The application process is straightforward, and candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly within the designated window.
Conclusion
The GRISHMA 2026 program at IIT Kharagpur represents a valuable opportunity for undergraduate students to gain practical research experience and develop essential skills that will benefit them in their future careers. By participating in this program, students can contribute to meaningful research while also receiving financial support, making it an attractive option for aspiring researchers.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest updates regarding the GRISHMA 2026 program and may be subject to change. Interested candidates should verify details through official channels.
