ANRF PM Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG)

About this scheme

The ANRF PM Early Career Research Grant (PM ECRG), earlier known as SERB PM ECRG, is a prestigious research funding scheme that provides ₹60 lakh over 3 years to young, independent researchers who have recently completed their Ph.D. The scheme aims to encourage outstanding researchers in the early stages of their career to pursue promising and innovative research in science and engineering. Approximately 700 grants are awarded annually across Indian academic institutions and research laboratories. The grant covers research manpower, consumables, travel, and equipment costs.

Eligibility

• Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen
• Educational qualification: Must hold a Ph.D. in Science or Engineering from a recognised university
• Age limit: Maximum 42 years of age as on the date of application (age relaxation for reserved categories as per Government norms)
• Employment: Must be a regular faculty member or researcher at an Indian academic institution, university, or R&D laboratory
• Ph.D. recency: Ph.D. should have been awarded within the last 5 years at the time of application

Benefits

• Total research grant of ₹60,00,000 (₹60 lakh) over 3 years
• Covers research manpower (JRFs, SRFs, research associates)
• Funds for consumables, chemicals, and lab supplies
• Travel support for domestic and international conferences
• Equipment purchase (within approved budget)
• Institutional overhead charges

Required documents

• Ph.D. degree certificate
• Detailed research proposal (3–5 pages)
• CV of the applicant (with list of publications)
• Age proof
• Endorsement letter from the Head of Institution
• Category certificate (if applicable)(optional)
• List of ongoing projects (if any)(optional)

Frequently asked