The Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India, has announced the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026.
Applications are now open for both Fellows and Host Institutions.
This Scheme aimed at bringing leading Indian-origin researchers from across the world to India’s top higher education institutions. Researchers can apply as a fellow under the following segments:
- Young Research Fellows (YRF)
- Senior Fellows (SF)
- Research Chairs (RC)
Applications will remain open until 15 July 2026.
Selected fellows will work with premier research institutes in India to conduct high-impact research. The scheme will run for up to five years, from 2026–27 to 2030–31.
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Financial Support Available
The PMRC Scheme provides substantial financial support to fellows.
| Category | Fellowship Fee (Annual) | Research Grant | Residential & Medical Allowance (Annual) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Research Fellows | ₹15–20 lakh | ₹1–1.5 crore | ₹5 lakh |
| Senior Fellows | ₹20–40 lakh | ₹1.5–2.5 crore | ₹9 lakh |
| Research Chairs | ₹40–60 lakh | ₹3–5 crore | ₹15 lakh |
Priority Research Areas
Applications are invited in several strategic sectors, including:
- Advanced Materials, Rare-earth & Critical Minerals
- Energy, Sustainability and Climate Change
- Agri & Food Technologies
- Semiconductors
- Advanced Computing (AI, Quantum Computing, Supercomputing)
- Healthcare & MedTech
- Space and Defence
- Quantum Communications
- Blue Economy
- Cybersecurity
- Manufacturing & Industry 4.0
- Biotechnology
- Atomic Energy
- Other projects aligned with National Missions
Who Can Apply?
For Fellows
Eligible applicants include Indian Nationals, Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO).
Applicants should be working at leading foreign universities, research institutions, laboratories, industries, or companies. The applicant must possess a strong record of research excellence demonstrated through publications, patents, awards, citations, and innovation achievements.
Interestingly, Indian-origin researchers currently based in India may also be considered if they satisfy the eligibility conditions.
For Host Institutions
Eligible host institutions include:
- Government HEIs ranked in the Top 100 of the NIRF Overall Category
- Government HEIs ranked in the Top 100 of the NIRF Engineering Category
- Government HEIs ranked in the Top 50 of the NIRF Research Category
- National laboratories and research institutions under agencies such as DBT, DST, ICMR, and CSIR
How to apply?
For Host Institutions: Interested institutions must submit project proposals in specified thematic areas through the official PMRC portal. They can submit multiple applications across different thematic areas.
For Fellows: Candidates must submit an application through the official PMRC portal. The application must
include Curriculum vitae, Details of Citizenship, Details of research outputs and others.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Applications Open | 1 June 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 July 2026 |
| Engagement Period | Up to 5 Years (2026–27 to 2030–31) |
Official Website: https://pmrc.education.gov.in/