MAIN FEATURE
Main Features of the SIRF
The Research Fund will primarily function as a financing institution based on inviting applications and granting support. Approval of grants will be made on a competitive 
basis, following transparent procedures. It is realised, however, that the objectives of the programme cannot be met unless the Secretariat also takes an active role in identifying potential applicants and encouraging, and at times assisting them, to apply.
The fund will operate four types of grants to achieve the different outputs identified (see Figure 1 for a schematic presentation of the fund).
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Research Fellowships: This is the largest component of the fund and it represents the core upon which the other types of grants largely depend. It is envisaged that the fund should provide grants facilitating research projects of 2 - 3 years duration allowing the key researcher to spend at least half- time on the project over this period. Nepali citizen of all social groups (caste and ethnic) with minimum of Masters Degree in relevant field are eligible to apply for the grant.
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Apprenticeship Grants: The Research Fund has allocated resources for apprenticeship programmes which will focus on providing research apprentice opportunities to the candidates from socially excluded groups: dalit, janajati, madhesi and women. They will have an opportunity to be involved in and build their capacity in research under the guidance of experienced researchers/institutions.
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Dissemination & Public Debate: The Fund has allocated resources for dissemination of the research findings. This support has been open from the year 2006.
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Capacity Building & Training: The fund has allocated resources for capacity building of established research institutions which will cover costs relating to training, supervision and development of proposals of the research fellows and apprentices. This support has been open from the year 2006.
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