The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has launched the application process for the Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG), aimed at supporting young researchers across India. The grant, offering up to Rs 60 lakh over a three-year period, seeks to boost the nation’s research and innovation efforts. Applications must be submitted by November 19, 2024, with up to 700 grants expected to be awarded annually. The grant not only provides research funding but also covers overhead costs, enabling researchers to efficiently manage their resources. Funds can be allocated for staff hiring, travel, contingencies, and international collaborations, allowing recipients to concentrate on their research without financial constraints.
Anusandhan National Research Foundation invites applications for the Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant.
Last date: 19th November, 2024 (till 05:00 PM)
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ANRF, established under the ANRF Act of 2023, plays a key role in driving India’s scientific and technological advancements. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the foundation is dedicated to nurturing a research-centric culture in the country. By providing flexible initiatives and financial support, ANRF aims to accelerate scientific progress, particularly by empowering early-career researchers.
The PM ECRG is designed to equip young researchers with the necessary resources to explore innovative ideas. Grant recipients are encouraged to publish open-access research papers and file patents, strengthening India’s presence in cutting-edge research fields. Open to all disciplines, the grant allows researchers to focus on their areas of interest.
Replacing the former Startup Research Grant (SRG) by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), the PM ECRG represents a modernized approach to supporting early-career researchers. The new program consolidates funding into a single, more comprehensive scheme to streamline the process.
Eligibility for the PM ECRG requires applicants to hold a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering, or an equivalent qualification in medical or veterinary sciences. Candidates must have joined their respective institutions on or after February 1, 2022, ensuring that the grant targets researchers at the beginning of their careers. The age limit for applicants is set at 42 years, with an additional three-year extension available for SC/ST/OBC/physically challenged candidates and women. The age will be calculated as of February 1, 2024.
This year, ANRF has introduced a one-time relaxation to the usual rule that requires applications within two years of joining an institution, giving candidates more time to apply. However, certain roles, such as Research Associates, Postdoctoral Fellows, and Ad-hoc faculty, are excluded from eligibility.
Applications are to be submitted online through the ANRF portal (www.anrfonline.in), and those already registered with SERB can use their existing credentials to apply. An expert committee will oversee the selection process to ensure that only the most promising projects receive funding.
ANRF has also established strict guidelines regarding project termination and transfer under the PM ECRG. Principal Investigators (PIs) wishing to terminate their projects must immediately inform ANRF, halt all expenditures, and submit the required documentation. The foundation reserves the right to terminate projects in cases of insufficient progress, fund misuse, or false information. While projects cannot be transferred to other individuals, institutional transfers are allowed in specific situations, such as moving from private to public institutions or for administrative reasons.
The PM ECRG is expected to make a significant impact on India’s research landscape, enabling early-career researchers to explore new ideas and contribute to the country’s scientific advancements. By offering financial flexibility and long-term project support, the grant aims to position India as a global leader in science and technology.
As the November 19, 2024 deadline approaches, early-career researchers across India are encouraged to apply for this prestigious grant and help shape the future of scientific innovation in the country.
