Encouraged by the response of first innovation scholars in-residence scheme, Rashtrapati Bhavan has invited applications for the second batch who will get to stay in the abode of country's First citizen for a week.

In a statement, Press Secretary to the President, Venu Rajamony said interested applicants can apply online through the website www.presidentofindia.nic.in.

"The last date for receipt of application is November 30, 2014. All Indian nationals who have a track record of innovation and implementation of innovative ideas may apply. The programme will commence from March, 2015 and selected Innovation Scholars will stay in Rashtrapati Bhavan for a period of two weeks," he said.

Rajamony said the Innovation Scholars In-Residence Scheme was launched by the President of India on December 11, 2013 with a view to promoting the spirit of innovation and giving further impetus to grassroots innovation activities.

"The main objective of the scheme is to provide an environment to grassroots innovators in Rashtrapati Bhavan to work on a project in hand and take their innovative ideas forward," he said.

It also aims to provide them with linkages to technical institutions to strengthen their capacity to innovate and to provide mentoring and support so that the innovations can be used for the progress and welfare of society, he said.