PRL Award 2026: ₹50,000 Cash Prize & Medal, Eligibility & How to Apply
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Quick answer
The PRL Award offers a ₹50,000 cash prize and a medal to Indian scientists below 45 years who have made original contributions in Earth and Planetary systems, Oceanography, Atmospheric Sciences, or Meteorology. Nominations are submitted online by downloading the form from the PRL website and emailing it to the Director.
At a glance
| Main benefit | ₹50,000 cash prize and medal |
| Ministry / department | Ministry Of Science And Technology |
| Level | Central Government |
| Age | Up to 45 years |
| Application mode | Online |
About the scheme
The Physical Research Laboratory Award, instituted by the late Prof. Devendra Lal, is a biennial award that recognises outstanding Indian scientists for original work in Earth and Planetary systems, including Oceanography, Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology. The award carries a cash prize of ₹50,000 and a medal, and nominations are made through an online process via the PRL website.
Benefits
- Cash prize of ₹50,000
- Medal
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Indian citizen
- Scientist
- Age below 45 years as of 1st January 2021 (born on or after 02.01.1976)
- Contribution to Earth and Planetary Systems, Oceanography, Atmospheric Sciences, or Meteorology
Documents required
- Significant Contributions Summary: 2-page document
- Impact of Contributions: A detailed impact statement
- Specific Contributions Justification: Explaining why the nominee deserves the award
- Complete List of Publications
- Ten Best Publications: Separate list with a focus on the last five years
- Five Key Publications (e-file format)
How to apply
- 1Visit the PRL website and go to the "Opportunities" section.
- 2Click on "Awards Administered By PRL" and select the "PRL Award" scheme.
- 3Download the prescribed application form from the provided link.
- 4Fill in all mandatory fields in the form and attach self‑attested copies of the required documents.
- 5Email the completed nomination to DIRECTOR@PRL.RES.IN with the subject line "Nomination for The PRL Award".
Frequently asked questions
What is the PRL Award?+
It is a biennial award recognizing outstanding contributions in Earth and Planetary systems, Oceanography, Atmospheric Sciences, and Meteorology.
Who is eligible for the PRL Award?+
Indian scientists below 45 years of age (born on or after 2 January 1976) who have worked in the specified fields.
What is the prize for the PRL Award?+
The award includes a cash prize of ₹50,000 and a medal.
What research areas are covered by the PRL Award?+
Contributions in Earth and Planetary Systems, Oceanography, Atmospheric Sciences, and Meteorology.
How should nominations be submitted for the PRL Award?+
Nominations must be emailed to DIRECTOR@PRL.RES.IN with the subject line "Nomination for The PRL Award".
What documents are required for the PRL Award nomination?+
A two‑page summary of contributions, an impact statement, specific contributions justification, complete list of publications, ten best publications (focus on last five years), and five key publications in electronic format.
NaukriZila is not a government website. Apply only on the official portal; never pay anyone to apply for a government scheme. Source: myScheme (Government of India)