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Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant
The Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG) is a flagship initiative by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), established under the ANRF Act 2023. This program aims to empower early-career researchers, providing them with the necessary resources to initiate and excel in research at their institutions.
Program Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Name | Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG) |
| Organizing Body | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) |
| Objective | To support early-career researchers in initiating high-impact research in India |
| Funding Support | Up to ₹60 lakh plus overheads for a period of three years |
| Total Grants Awarded | Up to 700 grants per year across all subject areas |
| Website | Official ANRF Website |
Key Benefits of the Grant
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flexible Budget Allocation | Researchers can utilize funds across recurring research expenses. |
| Manpower Recruitment | Flexibility in hiring research assistants, project staff, and associates. |
| International Travel | Funds can be used for project-related global collaborations and conferences. |
| Open Access & Patent Support | Financial assistance for publishing in open-access journals and filing patents. |
| Enhanced Contingency & Overheads | Additional funding provisions for miscellaneous research expenses. |
This program aims to accelerate India’s research ecosystem by making research easier, more flexible, and globally competitive.
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Upper age limit 42 years (Relaxation: +3 years for SC/ST/OBC/Physically Challenged & Women) |
| Institution Tenure | Applicant must have joined the institution on or after February 1, 2022 |
| Research Domain | Open to all subject areas |
| Career Stage | Must be an early-career researcher |
Note:
- Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant subsumes the Startup Research Grant (SRG) scheme of the former Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).
- The age relaxation and tenure requirements mentioned above apply only for the current call.
Application & Selection Process
| Step | Details |
| Step 1 | Prepare Research Proposal with a clear scientific objective, methodology, and expected impact. |
| Step 2 | Submit the application online through the ANRF portal. |
| Step 3 | Applications undergo scientific review and evaluation by expert committees. |
| Step 4 | Shortlisted candidates may be invited for further assessment or clarification. |
| Step 5 | Final selection based on research potential, feasibility, and national impact. |
Important Notes:
- Ensure that the research proposal aligns with India’s research priorities and scientific advancement goals.
- The grant is highly competitive, so applicants should highlight their research innovation and significance effectively.
Why Apply for PM ECRG?
- Early-career support with substantial research funding.
- International exposure through travel and collaboration grants.
- Flexibility in fund utilization, recruitment, and publication assistance.
- Opportunity to establish a strong research base in India.
This initiative enables India’s brightest researchers to make significant contributions to global science and technology.
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