Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar
Context:
The Government of India has introduced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) — a new set of national-level awards modeled after the Padma Awards — to recognize excellence in science and technology. This initiative aims to honour scientists and innovators contributing significantly to India’s scientific progress.
UPSC Relevance:
Awards
UPSC PYQ:
Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards: (2021)
- Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India.
- Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once.
- The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year.
Which of the above statements are not correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
About Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar:
- Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) stands as one of the highest recognitions in the field of science, technology, and innovation.
- Administered by: Ministry of Science and Technology.
- Recommended by: Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Committee, chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser.
- Presented by: President of India
- Total: 24 individual awards + 1 team award each year.
Categories of the Award:
- Vigyan Ratna (VR) Award: This is the highest honor, awarded for lifetime achievements in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Shri (VS) Award: Recognizes distinguished contributions in any field of science and technology.
- Vigyan Yuva-Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB) Award: Honors young scientists who have made exceptional contributions in science and technology.
- Vigyan Team (VT) Award: Given to a team of three or more scientists/researchers/innovators who have made significant contributions in their field through collaborative work.
| Award Category | Eligibility / Focus Area | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vigyan Ratna | Lifetime contribution | Recognises lifelong achievements and outstanding contributions to science & technology. |
| Vigyan Shri | Distinguished contributions in any field of science | For senior scientists demonstrating excellence in their domain. |
| Vigyan Yuva | Scientists under 45 years of age | Encourages young scientific talent showing exceptional promise. |
| Vigyan Team | Group of ≥3 scientists/researchers | Promotes collaborative scientific research and innovation. |
Awardees List 2025:
