PMRC Scheme 2026: Applications Open for Research Funding of Up to ₹14 Crore
The Ministry of Education has officially launched applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026, a prestigious initiative designed to attract accomplished Indian-origin researchers working overseas back to India. The scheme offers one of the country’s largest research funding packages, with total financial assistance reaching up to ₹14 crore, depending on the applicant’s category.
Eligible candidates can submit their research proposals online until July 15, 2026.
The PMRC Scheme aims to strengthen India’s research ecosystem by encouraging globally recognised scientists, technologists, and professionals of Indian origin to undertake cutting-edge research at leading Indian universities and national laboratories.
PMRC Scheme 2026 Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Ministry of Education |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date to Apply | July 15, 2026 |
| Maximum Funding | Up to ₹14 Crore |
| Eligible Applicants | Indian-origin researchers working abroad |
| Host Institutions | Top NIRF Institutions & Government Research Labs |
PMRC Scheme 2026 Financial Benefits
The PMRC Scheme provides extensive financial support under five major components.
1. Young Research Fellows (YRF)
- Annual Fellowship: ₹15 lakh to ₹20 lakh
- Research Grant: ₹1 crore to ₹1.5 crore
- Residential & Medical Allowance: ₹5 lakh per year
- Relocation Support: ₹30 lakh
- Institutional Overhead: ₹20 lakh annually
2. Senior Fellows (SF)
- Annual Fellowship: ₹20 lakh to ₹40 lakh
- Research Grant: ₹1.5 crore to ₹2.5 crore
- Residential & Medical Allowance: ₹9 lakh annually
- Relocation Benefit: ₹40 lakh
- Institutional Overhead: ₹30 lakh annually
3. Research Chairs (RC)
Researchers with over ten years of post-PhD experience can receive the highest level of financial assistance.
Benefits include:
- Annual Fellowship: ₹40 lakh to ₹60 lakh
- Research Grant: ₹3 crore to ₹5 crore
- Residential & Medical Allowance: ₹15 lakh annually
- Relocation Benefit: ₹50 lakh
- Institutional Overhead: ₹1 crore annually
Depending on the approved proposal and tenure, the overall funding package can exceed ₹13 crore, making PMRC one of India’s most generous research support programmes.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must satisfy the following eligibility conditions:
- Must be an Indian-origin researcher, scientist, technologist, or professional currently working abroad.
- Should be employed in a recognised university, research institute, laboratory, company, or industry overseas.
- Must fall under one of the following categories:
Young Research Fellow (YRF)
- Less than 5 years of post-PhD experience.
Senior Fellow (SF)
- Between 5 and 10 years of post-PhD experience.
Research Chair (RC)
- 10 years or more of post-PhD experience with demonstrated research leadership.
Eligible Host Institutions
Selected researchers can undertake projects at:
- Top 100 NIRF Overall Institutions
- Top 100 NIRF Engineering Institutions
- Top 50 NIRF Research Institutions
- National laboratories under organisations such as:
- CSIR
- DST
- DBT
- ICMR
- Other Government of India research organisations
How to Apply for PMRC Scheme 2026?
Applicants should follow these steps:
- Visit the official PMRC application portal.
- Click on “Submit Your Proposal.”
- Register as a Fellow.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Review the application carefully.
- Submit your proposal before July 15, 2026
Applicants should note that the host institution must also complete its registration before the proposal can be processed.
- Direct Link Below
- https://pmrc.education.gov.in/
- https://ka07edu.in/
Why is the PMRC Scheme Important?
The Prime Minister Research Chair Scheme is more than just a fellowship programme. It combines:
- Attractive annual fellowships
- Multi-crore research grants
- Relocation assistance
- Institutional funding
- Access to India’s top research infrastructure
- Opportunities to collaborate with premier universities and laboratories
The initiative is expected to encourage leading Indian-origin researchers to return and contribute to India’s scientific advancement, innovation, and technological development.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Application Started | June 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | July 15, 2026 |
Applicants are advised not to wait until the last day and should complete the registration process as early as possible.
Conclusion
The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026 is one of India’s most ambitious initiatives to attract global Indian talent. With research funding of up to ₹14 crore, generous fellowships, relocation assistance, and institutional support, the scheme offers an unparalleled opportunity for Indian-origin researchers working abroad to establish world-class research programmes in India.
Eligible researchers should carefully review the eligibility criteria, prepare their proposals, and submit their applications before July 15, 2026 to take advantage of this prestigious opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the last date to apply for PMRC Scheme 2026?
The last date to submit applications is July 15, 2026.
Who can apply?
Indian-origin researchers currently working abroad in recognised universities, laboratories, industries, or research institutions.
What is the maximum funding available?
Eligible Research Chairs can receive a total financial package exceeding ₹13 crore, with support reaching up to ₹14 crore depending on the approved proposal.
Is the application process online?
Yes. Applications must be submitted online through the official PMRC portal.
Which institutions can host PMRC fellows?
Top-ranked NIRF institutions and government research laboratories including CSIR, DST, DBT, and ICMR institutions.