Education Ministry Opens PM Research Chair Scheme 2026

Synopsis:  The Ministry of Education opens applications for the PM Research Chair Scheme 2026 to attract global Indian scientists. The initiative supports research in AI, semiconductors, quantum technology, clean energy, and other strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Education has opened applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026, a flagship initiative aimed at attracting distinguished Indian-origin scientists, researchers, and innovators from around the world to contribute to India’s research and innovation ecosystem. The programme seeks to strengthen the country’s higher education and research capabilities by facilitating the return and engagement of global Indian talent in strategically important sectors.

The PMRC Scheme is designed to address the challenge of talent migration while enhancing India’s position as a global hub for scientific research and technological innovation. Under the initiative, researchers will be supported through three categories Research Chairs, Senior Research Fellows, and Young Research Fellows. The government plans to engage approximately 120 Indian-origin scientists and researchers over a five-year period, enabling them to undertake high-impact research projects at leading institutions across the country.

The scheme focuses on priority areas that are critical to India’s long-term technological and economic development. These include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, clean energy, climate sustainability, space technologies, defence research, and other frontier scientific domains. Through sustained funding and institutional support, the initiative aims to promote innovation, knowledge creation, and international research collaboration.

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One of the key highlights of the PMRC Scheme is its substantial financial support. Research Chairs may receive funding support of up to Rs 14 crore, while Senior Research Fellows and Young Research Fellows are expected to receive approximately Rs 6.5 crore and Rs 4 crore respectively. The scheme has been allocated Rs 200 crore in the Union Budget 2026–27, reflecting the government’s commitment to strengthening research infrastructure and attracting world-class talent.

The selection process will be overseen by an empowered committee chaired by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India. Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Department of Science and Technology, NITI Aayog, industry, and academia will also participate in the evaluation process to ensure transparent and merit-based selection.

The Ministry expects the initiative to create a strong network of globally connected researchers, foster advanced scientific discoveries, and contribute to building a robust research ecosystem within Indian universities and institutions. By encouraging collaboration between international experts and domestic institutions, the PMRC Scheme is expected to accelerate innovation and enhance India’s competitiveness in emerging technologies.