Prime Minister's Early Career Research Grant (PM‑ECRG)
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Indian citizens; PIO/OCI in partnership with Indian Co‑PI
Program Overview!
Are you an early‑career researcher ready to launch impactful work in India? The Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant (PM‑ECRG) offers three major benefits: up to ₹60 lakh grant plus overheads for a 3‑year research project, flexible funding for personnel, travel, and publications, and international exposure with travel support. If you are an Indian PhD‑qualified scientist recently appointed to a recognized R&D institution, this program gives you the financial freedom, institutional support, and professional visibility to establish your independent research journey
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is India’s apex body for research funding and strategy, established in 2023 through an Act of Parliament. It supports research in natural sciences, engineering, health, environmental sciences, and the social sciences, aiming to foster innovation, equity, and excellence. Through grants, fellowships, and partnerships, ANRF empowers the next generation of Indian scientists—aligning with its goal to elevate India’s global research position under the Viksit Bharat vision.
PM‑ECRG supports outstanding early career researchers (typically within two years of joining their institution) to carry out independent, high‑quality R&D in India. The scheme emphasizes ease of research, with flexible spending across research support, manpower, international travel, open access publication, and patent costs. With up to 700 grants annually, it replaces the earlier SRG scheme, creating a robust platform for building a research career.
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Benefits:
- ₹60 lakh over three years, plus institutional overheads.
- Can allocate funds for manpower, consumables, travel (including international), and publication or patent fees.
- Less bureaucracy in resource use and staff recruitment.
- Helps launch independent research careers, especially for young faculty in Indian R&D organizations.
- Up to 700 awards granted annually, across all research disciplines.
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Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an Indian citizen (PIO/OCI eligible with Indian Co‑PI).
- PhD or equivalent in Science, Engineering, or Medicine.
- Employed on a regular position at a recognized Indian academic/R&D institution.
- Within 2 years of joining, with age limit 42 yrs (relaxable) .
- Should not currently hold SRG, CRG, or similar past grants.
- Not for temporary staff: excludes ad‑hoc, project fellows, and short‑term contract personnel.
Application Process
- Watch for the online call on ANRF portal during 12 June – 7 July 2025.
- Register/login at (SERB credentials accepted) .
- Submit research proposal, institutional details, and budget plan using portal forms.
- After expert review, selections are made during 2025; grants awarded following due diligence.
- Once approved, funds are disbursed—begin deploying for project work with regular progress and financial reporting.