Central Govt Science, IT & Communications

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar

India's top science recognition · scientists & innovators · certificate + medallion from President

The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar is India's highest national science award, recognising scientists, technologists, and innovators from government and private organisations across 13 fields of science. Awards include Vigyan Ratna (lifetime achievement), Vigyan Shri (distinguished contribution), Vigyan Yuva (young scientists), and Vigyan Team. Awards are announced on National Technology Day (11 May) and presented by the President of India on National Space Day (23 August) — apply online at awards.gov.in.

Department Of Science & Technology For: Individual Official Source

About This Scheme

Full official description

Science and Technology are essential tools for development of the society. Scientists play a very important role in selflessly driving the systematic quest for truth and the development of new knowledge. They are the backbones of the nation who contribute tirelessly to the society's development. The exemplary and outstanding contributions of scientists need to be recognized so that they can serve as an inspiration to others.

Objective

The objective of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) is to recognise the notable and inspiring contribution made by the scientists, technologists and innovators individually or in teams in various fields of science, technology and technology- led innovation. The RVP shall be one of the highest recognition in the field of science, technology and innovation in India. Scientists/ technologists / innovators working in government, private sector organizations or individuals working outside any organisation, who have made distinguished contributions in terms of path-breaking research or innovation or discovery in any fields of science, technology or technology- led innovation shall be eligible for the awards. People of Indian origin staying abroad with exceptional contributions benefiting the Indian communities or society shall also be eligible for the awards

The awards shall be given in the following four categories

a) Vigyan Ratna (VR) award to be awarded to recognize lifetime achievements & contributions made in any field of science and technology. b) Vigyan Shri(VS)award to be awarded to recognize distinguished contributions in any field of science and technology. c) Vigyan Yuva- Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) award to be awarded to recognize & encourage young scientists who made an exceptional contribution in any field of science and technology. d) VigyanTeam (VT) award to be awarded to a team comprising three or more scientists/researchers/innovators who have made an exceptional contribution working in a team in any field of science and technology.

No. of Awardees:

Name of AwardMax. No. of Awards Vigyan Ratna (VR)03Vigyan Shri (VS)25Vigyan Yuva - Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB)25Vigyan Team (VT)03

Ceremony Details

a) These awards shall be announced on the National Technology Day (11th May) every year. b) The Award Ceremony for all categories of awards shall be held every year on the National Space Day on 23rdAugust. c) The Hon'ble President of India / The Hon'ble Vice President of India may confer the Awards. d) The Award Ceremony may be organised every year in Vigyan Bhavan or at an alternative suitable venue. e) All these awards would commence from the year 2024.

Benefits

Awardees receive a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President of India and a medallion
A commemorative brochure with citation and photograph is released on the day of the ceremony
Up to 3 Vigyan Ratna, 25 Vigyan Shri, 25 Vigyan Yuva, and 3 Vigyan Team awards given per year
Outstation awardees receive 2nd AC travel fare and daily allowance as per GoI rules
Recognition as one of India's most prestigious science honours

💡 Why Startups Should Care

This is a recognition award — the real value for a startup founder is credibility. Being named a Vigyan Shri or Vigyan Yuva awardee opens doors to government procurement, public institution partnerships, and grant panels where peer recognition carries weight.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

Open to scientists, technologists, and innovators working in any scientific field — from government or private organisations
People of Indian origin working abroad with contributions benefiting Indian communities are also eligible
Research must be in one of 13 domains: Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics & Computer Science, Earth Science, Medicine, Engineering, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Technology & Innovation, Atomic Energy, Space Science, or Others
Vigyan Team award requires a team of 3 or more scientists working together

How to Apply

Visit the official portal at awards.gov.in
Click 'Registration' and choose Individual or Organization
Fill in your name, date of birth, mobile, email, and Aadhaar number, then submit
Log in and find Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar from the scheme list
Click 'Nominate / Apply Now' and fill all mandatory fields
Submit the completed application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)?

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar is a prestigious national-level award in India, recognizing outstanding contributions in the field of science and technology.

Who organizes Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar?

The award is organized and presented by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.

What are the categories for Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar?

RVP is awarded in various categories such as Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences, and Engineering Sciences.

Who is eligible for Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar?

Scientists, researchers, and individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields in science and technology are eligible for the award.

Is Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar only for Indian citizens?

Yes, the award is specifically designed for Indian citizens who have excelled in the domain of science and technology.

How does one nominate a candidate for Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar?

Nominations for RVP are invited through a formal process, and individuals or organizations interested in proposing a candidate need to follow the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Can the public attend the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar ceremony?

The award ceremony is usually attended by invitees, including scientists, government officials, and dignitaries. While it is not open to the general public, the event is often covered by the media.

How does Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar contribute to promoting scientific research in India?

RVP plays a crucial role in promoting a culture of excellence in scientific research by recognizing and rewarding outstanding achievements, thus encouraging further innovation.

Who can apply for the awards?

Individual
Organization

How Individual can register ?

Step-1: Visit the official website. Step-2: Click on the Registration button. Step-3: Choose type Individual. Step-4: Provide the required details. Step-5: Submit.

What documents are required ?

Nomination Form.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the nominee.
Detailed description of the nominee's contribution.
Supporting documents (research papers, patents, awards certificates, testimonials, letters of recommendation, etc., depending on the specific nomination).
Aadhaar Card.
Photograph.

Ready to apply?

Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.

Apply on myScheme.gov.in

Documents Required

Nomination form
Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the nominee
Detailed description of the nominee's contribution
Supporting documents (research papers, patents, award certificates, testimonials, recommendation letters)
Aadhaar card
Photograph