PM Research Chair Scheme Invites Global Talent

Why in the News ?

The Department of Higher Education has invited applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026, a flagship initiative aimed at attracting global Indian researchers and strengthening India’s research, innovation, and technology ecosystem, including areas of environmental jurisprudence and sustainable development.

Objectives and Key Features of PMRC Scheme:

●  The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026 seeks to connect global Indian talent with India’s rapidly growing research and innovation ecosystem.

●  The initiative focuses on enhancing India’s capabilities in Research, Development, Innovation (RDI) and emerging technologies, promoting environmental democracy through scientific advancement.

●  The scheme covers 13 thematic areas of national priority, including Advanced Computing, Semiconductors, Cybersecurity, and other strategic sectors aligned with the precautionary principle for sustainable development.

●  It aims to facilitate knowledge transfer, foster cutting-edge research, and promote collaboration between Indian institutions and global experts in fields requiring environmental impact assessment expertise.

●  The programme supports India’s vision of becoming a global leader in science, technology, and innovation while ensuring a pollution free environment.

Selection Process and Benefits for Fellows

●  Participating institutions and PMRC Fellows will be selected through a rigorous evaluation process supervised by an Empowered Committee, following transparent procedures similar to the EIA notification framework.

●  Selected fellows will receive fellowship support and dedicated research grants for carrying out advanced scientific work, including research on the polluter pays principle and environmental compliance.

●  The scheme provides access to world-class laboratories, research infrastructure, and technological facilities that meet environmental clearance standards.

●  Fellows will have opportunities to collaborate with leading government research institutions, universities, and innovation centres across India, contributing to environmental jurisprudence development.

●  The initiative is expected to strengthen India’s scientific workforce and encourage high-quality research in priority sectors, ensuring compliance with the Forest Conservation Act and Coastal Regulation Zone regulations where applicable.

About Research and Innovation Ecosystem in India : ●  The Department of Higher Education functions under the Ministry of Education. ●  India’s research and innovation ecosystem is guided by initiatives such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Research Foundation (NRF). ●  The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) aims to promote a culture of research and innovation across higher educational institutions. ●  Priority sectors for research include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Technologies, Semiconductors, Biotechnology, Cybersecurity, and Advanced Computing. ●  Strengthening research capacity is essential for achieving the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and transforming India into a knowledge-based economy. ●      Collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions is a key component of India’s innovation strategy.