The Government of India has unveiled the “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar,” a prestigious set of national awards aimed at recognizing outstanding contributions in the fields of science, technology, and technology-led innovation. These awards will be one of the highest honors in the realm of science and innovation in India. Eligibility extends to scientists, technologists, and innovators from various sectors, including government, private organizations, and individuals outside organizations. The awards encompass four categories, namely Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri, Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar, and Vigyan Team, covering 13 domains. The selection process involves a committee headed by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Nominations will be open annually from January 14th to February 28th, with awards announced on May 11th and the ceremony held on August 23rd. The awards include a Sanad (certificate) and a medal, granting recipients equal status with other national awards.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar: These national awards in science, technology, and innovation aim to honor exceptional contributions by individuals or teams in various fields within these domains.
- Vigyan Ratna (VR) Award: Recognizes lifetime achievements and significant contributions in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Shri (VS) Award: Acknowledges distinguished contributions in the field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) Award: Encourages and rewards young scientists under the age of 45 who have made exceptional contributions in science and technology.
- Vigyan Team (VT) Award: Recognizes teams of three or more scientists, researchers, or innovators who have made remarkable contributions while working collaboratively in any field of science and technology.
- Selection Procedure: The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee (RVPC), chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, oversees the selection process. The committee comprises Secretaries of Science Departments, members of Science and Engineering Academies, and distinguished scientists and technologists from various fields.
- Domains: Awards span 13 domains, including 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.
- Award Timeline: Nominations are invited annually from January 14th to February 28th (National Science Day), with awards announced on May 11th (National Technology Day) and the ceremony held on August 23rd (National Space Day). Each award includes a certificate (Sanad) and a medal.
- Equal Status: Recipients of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar awards are granted equal status with other national awards, signifying their significance in the realm of science, technology, and innovation in India.
