In a significant move to recognize and celebrate excellence in the fields of Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Government of India has introduced the ‘Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar’ (RVP).
Objective: The primary objective of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar is to honor the remarkable contributions made by scientists, technologists, and innovators, either individually or as part of teams, across various domains of science, technology, and technology-led innovation.
Premier Recognition: The RVP is set to become one of the highest accolades in India’s science, technology, and innovation landscape. It aims to acknowledge exceptional individuals or teams working in government, private sector organizations, or independently outside any organization, whose pioneering research, innovation, or discoveries have made a significant impact.
Categories: The awards will be presented in the following four categories:
- Vigyan Ratna (VR): Recognizing lifetime achievements and contributions in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Shri (VS): Honoring distinguished contributions in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB): Encouraging young scientists up to the age of 45 who have made outstanding contributions in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Team (VT): Acknowledging teams of three or more scientists, researchers, or innovators who have collectively made exceptional contributions in any field of science and technology.
Eligibility: Scientists, technologists, and innovators, whether in government or private organizations, who have conducted groundbreaking research, led technological innovations, or made significant discoveries with substantial societal impact, are eligible for these awards. Additionally, individuals of Indian origin living abroad, who have made exceptional contributions benefiting Indian communities or society, will also be considered.
Domains: The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar will be conferred in 13 domains, encompassing Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics & Computer Science, Earth Science, Medicine, Engineering Sciences, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Technology & Innovation, Atomic Energy, Space Science and Technology, and Others. The awards will strive for equitable representation across all domains, ensuring gender parity.
Selection Process: Nominations for the awards will be invited annually from January 14th to February 28th, with the announcements set for May 11th. The award ceremony for all categories will take place on August 23rd.
The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee (RVPC), chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will oversee the selection process. The committee comprises Secretaries of Science Departments, members of Science and Engineering Academies, and distinguished scientists and technologists from various fields.
The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar marks a transformative step in recognizing and honoring the scientific community’s achievements at the highest level by the Government of India. It underscores transparency and fairness in the selection process, elevating the status of scientific innovators and technologists on par with other national awards.
