To strengthen India’s position as a global hub for research, innovation, and technological advancement, the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education has invited applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026. The initiative will connect India’s rapidly expanding scientific ecosystem with distinguished Indian-origin researchers, scientists, technologists, and industry professionals working in leading institutions across the world.
The scheme is one of the Indian government’s major initiatives to bring the knowledge and experience of Indians working abroad into India’s research ecosystem. It will solve national challenges, promote advanced technologies, and support Bharat’s goal of becoming a knowledge-driven economy. Applications from both Fellows and Host Institutions opened on June 1, 2026, through the PMRC portal.
Over the past decade, India has made significant progress in research and innovation through initiatives such as Digital India, Startup India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat, along with increased investment in science and technology. Officials believe that the scheme will not only facilitate knowledge transfer but also help build long-term research partnerships, mentor young scientists, enhance innovation capacity, and support the development of cutting-edge technologies critical to India’s future.
📢Department of Higher Education launches applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026
A flagship national initiative connecting global Indian talent with India’s scientific and innovation future
🔗For detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria, and…
— PIB India (@PIB_India) June 2, 2026
Focus on 13 Strategic and Emerging Sectors
The PMRC Scheme has been aligned with India’s national development priorities and strategic technological needs. These areas include:
-Advanced Computing, including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Supercomputing
Semiconductors
-Energy, Sustainability, and Climate Change
-Cybersecurity
-Healthcare and Medical Technologies
-Biotechnology
-Advanced Materials and Critical Minerals
-Space and Defence Technologies
-Next-Generation Communications
-Manufacturing and Industry 4.0
-Agriculture and Food Technologies
-Blue Economy
-Atomic Energy
Three-Pillar Structure for Mission-Oriented Research
The PMRC Scheme has been structured around three key pillars: Lead Institutions, Host Institutions, and PMRC Fellows. The framework has been designed to ensure that research projects address national priorities and produce meaningful long-term results. The selection of institutions and fellows will be overseen by an Empowered Committee chaired by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. Under the scheme, Lead Institutions will guide and coordinate research activities, Host Institutions will support the implementation of projects, and PMRC Fellows will contribute their knowledge, expertise, and global experience to promote innovation and scientific progress.
Selected PMRC Fellows will receive comprehensive support to take up research activities in India. The benefits include fellowship support, research grants, access to advanced laboratories and research infrastructure, and opportunities to collaborate with some of India’s premier government institutions and scientific organisations. Host Institutions will gain access to global academic networks, international collaborations, advanced research methodologies, and expertise from globally recognised professionals.
Such collaborations can contribute to higher research output, improved innovation capabilities, technology commercialisation opportunities, and stronger international visibility for Indian institutions.
PMRC Scheme offers opportunities under three categories: Young Research Fellows, Senior Research Fellows, and Research Chairs. The scheme is open to accomplished Indian-origin researchers, scientists, technologists, and professionals working globally. Eligible applicants include:
-Indian nationals currently working abroad
-Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders
-Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
Several leading institutions across the country are eligible to participate as Host Institutions under the PMRC Scheme. These include government higher educational institutions ranked among the top 100 in the NIRF Overall or Engineering categories, or among the top 50 in the NIRF Research category. The scheme is also open to premier national laboratories and research institutions under organisations such as the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
Seven Premier Institutions Selected as Lead Institutions
-Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi
-Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay
-Indian Institute of Technology, Madras
-Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur
-Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad
-Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad
-Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru
These institutions will play a crucial role in coordinating research activities, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful implementation of the programme.
As India seeks to emerge as a major centre for research and innovation in the coming decades, the Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme could become a key platform for harnessing global expertise and transforming it into tangible scientific, technological, and economic progress.
