NCERT launches PRAYAS to nurture research among students

The National Council of Education, Research and Training (NCERT) has launched Promotion of Research Attitude Among Young and Emerging Students (PRAYAS) for the 2025–26 academic year, aimed at fostering scientific inquiry and innovation among schoolchildren.

An extension of the INSPIRE Awards scheme, PRAYAS invites students from Classes 9 and 10 to identify local issues, analyze them scientifically, and propose practical, sustainable solutions. The initiative will cover 372 schools across the district, engaging more than 48,000 students in early-stage research and problem-solving exercises.

NCERT has announced cash incentives to encourage participation. Each selected student researcher will receive Rs 50,000, with female students receiving an additional Rs 10,000. Teachers and subject experts mentoring the projects will be awarded Rs 20,000.

Schools may submit one project focusing on societal, technological, or public-interest issues. Each project will be guided by subject teachers from physics, chemistry, biology, or mathematics, with support from external experts. Proposals must be submitted via the NCERT portal at http://ncern.nic.in by September 17 using application code 919121000153. Results will be announced on October 15, and projects are to be completed within 12 months.

Last year, NCERT received around 1,600 research submissions. With PRAYAS, the council aims to strengthen the research culture in schools and channel young creativity into meaningful innovation.

District Science Officer D. Kalidas described PRAYAS as “a valuable opportunity for students to enhance their research skills and build pathways to future careers in science.” He urged teachers to identify creative students and encourage them to contribute toward solving real-world challenges.