The PMRC Scheme 2026 is a flagship national initiative designed to attract accomplished Indian-origin researchers, scientists, technologists, and professionals from globally reputed universities, laboratories, research institutions, and industries
The Scheme covers 13 thematic areas of national priority: Advanced Computing (AI, Quantum Computing & Supercomputing), Semiconductors, Energy, Sustainability & Climate Change, Cybersecurity, Healthcare & MedTech, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials & Critical Minerals, Space & Defence, Next-Generation Communications, Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, Agri & Food Technologies, Blue Economy, and Atomic Energy
Scheme has three engagement categories: Young Research Fellows for early career researchers, Senior Research Fellows for experienced researchers, and Research Chairs for globally accomplished research leaders
Eligible Fellows include accomplished Indian origin researchers, scientists, and professionals, including Indian Nationals working abroad, OCI cardholders, and Persons of Indian Origin
Eligible Host Institutions include Government Higher Educational Institutions ranked among Top 100 in NIRF Overall or Engineering categories, or Top 50 in NIRF Research category
Eligible institutions also include top national laboratories and research institutions under agencies including Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
Seven premier institutions identified as Lead Institutions: Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi), Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur), Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad), Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad [IIT (ISM) Dhanbad], and Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru (IISc Bengaluru)
Applications from Fellows and Host Institutions open from 1 June 2026 on the PMRC Portal
Scheme overseen by an Empowered Committee chaired by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India
