The Department during the seventh five-year plan introduced the scheme Utilisation of the Scientific Expertise of Retired Scientists (USERS). The main objective of the scheme is to utilize expertise and potential of large number of eminent scientists in the country who remain active and deeply motivated to participate in S&T development activities even after their retirement. The scheme has continued to play a significant role in involving a large number of retired scientists in S&T developmental activities. The main activity under the programme is preparation of books/monographs/state-of-the-art reports. The project duration is normally for two years and the Scientists awarded in this scheme are given an honorarium of Rs.20,000/- per month.