The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026 is now open for applications. Launched by the Department of Higher Education, the program aims to recruit top Indian-origin researchers from abroad. Selected experts will conduct advanced research in India. The initiative seeks to strengthen the nation's research capabilities. Applications opened on June 1 .
Eligible Host Institutions
Leading Indian institutions can host PMRC fellows. These include IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Hyderabad, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, and IISc Bengaluru. Other eligible institutions are those ranked in the Top 100 of NIRF Overall, Top 100 of NIRF Engineering, and Top 50 of NIRF Research. National research bodies like DBT, DST, CSIR, and ICMR can also participate.
Priority Research Areas
Research funding is available for 13 strategic sectors. These areas are considered critical for India's future. They include artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Other focus areas are semiconductors, cybersecurity, and healthcare. Biotechnology, space, and defence are also included. Advanced materials, climate change, and manufacturing are supported. Next-generation communications, agriculture technologies, blue economy, and atomic energy are covered.
Fellowship Categories and Benefits
The PMRC Scheme offers three fellowship levels. These are based on post-PhD experience. Young Research Fellows (YRF) have 0 to less than 5 years of experience. Senior Fellows (SF) have 5 to less than 10 years. Research Chairs (RC) require 10 or more years of experience. They must also demonstrate strong research leadership.
Fellowship benefits vary by category. All fellowships include an annual fellowship fee. A one-time research grant is provided. An annual residential and medical allowance is also included. A one-time relocation benefit assists with moving. Operational costs or overheads are covered annually.
| Category | Fellowship Fee (Annual) | Research Grant (One-time) | Residential & Medical Allowance (Annual) | Relocation Benefit (One-time) | Operational Cost / Overheads (Annual) |
| Young Research Fellows | ₹0.15–0.20 crore | ₹1–1.50 crore | ₹0.05 crore | ₹0.30 crore | ₹0.20 crore |
| Senior Fellows | ₹0.20–0.40 crore | ₹1.50–2.50 crore | ₹0.09 crore | ₹0.40 crore | ₹0.30 crore |
| Research Chairs | ₹0.40–0.60 crore | ₹3–5 crore* | ₹0.15 crore | ₹0.50 crore | ₹1 crore |
*Note: Research grant for Research Chairs is indicative.
How to Apply
Applications are accepted through the official PMRC portal. Both prospective fellows and host institutions can apply. The application window opened on June 1 . Interested individuals and institutions should visit the PMRC website for detailed instructions and forms.
