Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)
The RVP is being introduced for the first time in 2024.
It was established to replace the existing science awards, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, to provide a more inclusive and updated recognition system.
The objective of RVP is to recognize 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.
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 following four categories:-
The awards shall be given in following four categories (in any field of science and technology) :-
Vigyan Ratna (VR) award will recognize lifetime achievements & contributions
Up to 3 awards are given each year
Vigyan Shri (VS) award will recognize distinguished contributions
Up to 25 awards are given each year.
Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) award will recognize & encourage young scientists up to the age of 45 years who made an exceptional contribution. Up to 25 awards are given each year.
Vigyan Team (VT) award to be given to a team comprising of three or more scientists/researchers/innovators who have made an exceptional contribution working in a team. Up to 3 awards for teams of three or more
Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar shall be given in the 13 domains, namely
Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics & Computer Science, Earth Science, Medicine, Engineering Sciences, Agricultural Science, Environmental Science, Technology & Innovation, Atomic Energy, Space Science and Technology, and Others.
The representation from each domain/field, including gender parity will be ensured.
All nominations received for the RVP awards shall be placed before the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee (RVPC)
RVPC headed by the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to Government of India and comprising
Secretaries of Science Departments,
members of Science and Engineering Academies
some distinguished scientists and technologists from different fields of science and technology
The nominations for this bouquet of awards will be invited every year on 14th January which would remain open till 28th February (National Science Day) every year.
These awards shall be announced on 11th May (National Technology Day) every year.
The Award Ceremony for all categories of awards will be held on 23rd August (National Space Day).
All Awards will have a Sanad (Certificate) & a medal
Need for increased funding for scientific research
Many Indian scientists work with minimal funds and outdated equipment, which hampers their ability to perform cutting-edge research
Better funding is necessary to help scientists compete globally and achieve significant research outcomes
While awards like the RVP honor achievements, they do not address the fundamental issue of inadequate financial support for research
Increased budgetary allocations would improve the quality of research and infrastructure, supporting scientists in their work and fostering innovation.
Merely restructuring awards or providing recognition is insufficient; real progress requires substantial investment in research resources and facilities
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