Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025: Honouring India’s Scientific Excellence

The Government of India announced the winners of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025, celebrating the nation’s finest minds in science and technology. Among the distinguished names, late astrophysicist Professor Jayant Narlikar was honoured posthumously for his lifetime contribution to cosmology, while professors from IIT Madras and several national institutes were also recognised for their groundbreaking research.

The awards, spread across categories like Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri, Vigyan Yuva, and Vigyan Team, aim to acknowledge achievements that have strengthened India’s scientific foundation. Professor Narlikar’s recognition stands as a tribute to his pioneering work on cosmological theories and his efforts to popularise science among students and the general public.

IIT Madras saw multiple faculty members among the awardees, reflecting the institution’s growing influence in engineering and scientific innovation. Other winners came from premier institutions such as IISc Bengaluru, ISRO, DRDO, and CSIR labs, covering disciplines like physics, biology, environmental sciences, and technology development.

The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar, introduced to replace the older science awards, symbolises a broader national effort to elevate the visibility of Indian research and innovation. It focuses on both senior scientists who have shaped the field and young researchers driving the next wave of discovery.

For Tier 2 cities, the recognition of diverse research fields underlines how science is not limited to big urban centres. Many laureates have roots in smaller towns and universities, showing that talent and innovation can emerge from any corner of the country when given the right support.

The announcement serves as both a tribute and an inspiration—reminding India’s youth that scientific pursuit, curiosity, and perseverance continue to shape the nation’s progress and global standing.