Nearly 260 global scientists have applied for the government's ambitious scheme to attract top international talent in the country's research and development (R&D) ecosystem. Department of Science and Technology (DST) Secretary Ashutosh Sharma said the government had announced the Visiting Advanced Joint Research (VAJRA) Faculty scheme in May for inviting foreign scientists in Indian R&D ecosystem. It is a pilot project and the DST eventually intends to select 1,000 scientists every year. Scientists from diverse backgrounds have applied for this project.<br/><br/>The DST Secretary said, through this project, India will be able to collaborate with best scientific minds world over and Indian students pursuing doctorate will receive their guidance and they will also be exposed to international practices.