The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has invited proposals from Indian industries under the New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI) programme. The programme is backed by national determination to turn sound technological ideas into a reality through a systematic development of innovative projects.

The project proposal should brief on the expertise available, the likely impact of the proposal, novelty element, global scenario concerning the segment, leadership possibilities and expertise required from R & D institutions, cost estimates and the duration of the project, product / technology commercialization plan and networking sought from Indian R & D institutions and academia to form teams.

In the last six years of introduction of the programme, CSIR has supported 42 projects involving over 65 industry partners and 222 R & D institutions of India with an estimated outlay of Rs 300 crore.

CSIR offers expert guidance in developing and implementing the project, attractive financial assistance in proving the concepts and developing the identified technologies through a novel mechanism, locating and forging partnerships with competent institutions in the country.

Companies registered in India and having more than 50 per cent of Indian shareholding are eligible to get support under the scheme. The last date for sending proposals for companies is May 31, 2006.