Applications Now Open for the Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme 2026
The Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education has officially opened applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026. This flagship initiative seeks to attract accomplished Indian-origin researchers, scientists, technologists, and professionals working at leading institutions abroad to premier government higher education institutions and national research laboratories across India.
Launched as part of broader efforts to bolster the nation’s research and innovation capacity, the scheme aligns with national priorities including Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Host institutions and prospective fellows can submit applications through the dedicated PMRC portal at pmrc.education.gov.in.
Background and Objectives of the PMRC Scheme
The PMRC Scheme addresses the long-standing challenge of talent migration by creating structured pathways for global Indian experts to return and contribute to India’s higher education and research landscape. By placing selected fellows at top-ranked government higher education institutions and national laboratories, the programme aims to foster cutting-edge research that directly supports economic growth, technological self-reliance, and societal development.
Unlike fellowship programmes focused primarily on doctoral students, this chair scheme targets senior and mid-career researchers who bring established expertise, international networks, and proven track records. The initiative complements existing efforts in higher education by strengthening faculty quality and research output at universities and research centres.
Eligibility Criteria for Prospective Fellows
Indian nationals currently employed or affiliated with reputed institutions and organisations abroad are eligible. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) working in leading global universities, research laboratories, or industry R&D centres may also apply. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional achievements in their fields, with a clear proposal aligned to one of the scheme’s priority thematic areas.
Host institutions must be among the top-ranked government higher education institutions according to NIRF rankings or selected national laboratories under bodies such as the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, or Indian Council of Medical Research.
The 13 Thematic Areas Driving National Priorities
Research proposals must align with thirteen strategically identified thematic areas of national importance. These include Advanced Computing encompassing artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and supercomputing; Semiconductors; Cybersecurity; Energy, Sustainability and Climate Change; Healthcare and Medical Technology; Biotechnology; Advanced Materials, Rare Earths and Critical Minerals; Space and Defence; Manufacturing and Industry 4.0; Agricultural and Food Technology; the Blue Economy; Atomic Energy; and Next Generation Communication Systems including quantum communication.
Each area has been chosen to address critical gaps in India’s research ecosystem while leveraging existing strengths at leading higher education institutions and laboratories. Lead institutions such as IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Dhanbad, and the Indian Institute of Science provide strategic oversight for specific themes.
Application Process and Timeline
Both prospective fellows and eligible host institutions began submitting applications on 1 June 2026. The process involves reviewing thematic areas, preparing domain-specific proposals, and undergoing evaluation by expert committees. An Empowered Committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Education, Department of Science and Technology, NITI Aayog, industry, and academia oversees the final selections to ensure transparency and merit.
Applications are accepted through the official portal, with detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria, and submission procedures available there. One reported deadline for initial submissions stands at 15 July 2026, though prospective applicants should verify current timelines directly on the portal.
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Benefits and Support for Selected Fellows and Institutions
Selected PMRC fellows receive a one-time research grant to initiate projects, along with access to world-class infrastructure, dedicated research teams, and multi-crore funding commitments. The scheme provides research autonomy while ensuring alignment with national objectives through mentorship and collaboration mechanisms at host institutions.
Higher education institutions benefit from enhanced research capacity, opportunities for international collaborations, and the potential to elevate their global rankings through high-impact publications and innovations. National laboratories gain fresh perspectives and expertise that can accelerate technology transfer from lab to market.
Selection and Evaluation Framework
A rigorous, multi-stage evaluation ensures only the most promising proposals and candidates are chosen. Expert committees assess institutional capabilities, proposed research problems, and individual profiles. The process emphasises measurable outcomes, scalability, and contribution to priority sectors critical for India’s technological and economic advancement.
Successful placements will see fellows integrated into vibrant research ecosystems at premier universities and laboratories, fostering knowledge exchange that benefits students, early-career researchers, and the broader academic community.
Implications for Indian Higher Education and Research Ecosystem
The scheme represents a significant step in elevating the quality and global competitiveness of research conducted at Indian higher education institutions. By attracting diaspora talent, universities can address faculty shortages in specialised areas, enhance PhD supervision capacity, and increase publication output in high-impact journals.
Administrators at participating institutions gain access to new funding streams and collaborative networks. PhD-track students and early-career academics benefit indirectly through exposure to international best practices and mentorship from globally recognised experts. The initiative also supports multidisciplinary approaches that align with emerging demands in industry and government.
Stakeholder Perspectives and Broader Context
University leaders have welcomed the scheme as a timely intervention that complements ongoing reforms in higher education. Researchers abroad have expressed interest in contributing to India’s development journey while maintaining connections with global networks. Industry partners anticipate stronger lab-to-market pathways in strategic sectors such as semiconductors and advanced computing.
The PMRC Scheme builds on related initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship for doctoral students, creating a more comprehensive talent pipeline from early research training through senior leadership roles at Indian institutions.
Future Outlook and Actionable Insights for Applicants
With applications now open, prospective fellows are encouraged to align their expertise with national priority themes and identify suitable host institutions early. Host institutions should prepare robust proposals highlighting existing capabilities and infrastructure readiness.
Those interested in faculty or research positions at Indian universities can explore related opportunities through established platforms while preparing competitive applications for this scheme. The initiative signals continued government commitment to positioning India as a global research hub.
How to Apply and Next Steps
Visit the official PMRC portal at pmrc.education.gov.in for the latest call for applications, detailed guidelines, and submission forms. Applicants should review the full list of eligible institutions and thematic priorities before preparing proposals.
Additional information appears in recent announcements from the Ministry of Education and coverage in reputable outlets such as The Indian Express and India Today.
