MoE Launches ‘PMRC Scheme 2026’ to Attract Global Indian Talent

Current Context: On June 1, 2026, the Ministry of Education launched the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme.

• It is administered by the Department of Higher Education to attract Indian‑origin researchers, OCI & PIO scientists back into India’s research ecosystem.
• The scheme prioritizes 13 frontier sectors → AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, biotechnology, clean energy, defence, healthcare, climate change, atomic energy, advanced materials, Industry 4.0, etc.
• Three categories offered → Young Research Fellow, Senior Research Fellow, Research Chair, tailored to career stages.
• Host institutions include top IITs (Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Kanpur, Hyderabad, ISM Dhanbad) and IISc Bengaluru, ensuring world‑class infrastructure.
• Applications opened via the PMRC portal to create a structured pipeline of talent.
• Aim → To boost India’s global scientific leadership, innovation capacity, and self‑reliance in strategic technologies.

Question:

Q.1 The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme was launched by which ministry?
a) Ministry of Education
b) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
c) Ministry of Science and Technology
d) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology

Answer: a) The Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme was launched on June 1, 2026, by the Ministry of Education to strengthen India's research ecosystem and attract global talent of Indian origin.