National Technology Day, celebrated annually on May 11th, marks India’s milestones in technological advancement. To further recognize and encourage contributions to indigenous technology development and commercialization, the Government of India presents the National Technology Awards. These awards honor achievements in the commercialization and development of indigenous technologies across several categories, thereby inspiring continued innovation and technological self-reliance.
The awards are conferred in the following categories:
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National Technology Award (Main):
Recognizes successful commercialization of indigenous technology by an industrial concern since April 2017. -
National Technology Awards (MSME):
Acknowledges MSMEs that have successfully commercialized products based on indigenous technology. (Three awards) -
National Technology Awards (Start-up):
Honors promising new technologies from start-ups with potential for future commercialization. (Five awards) -
National Technology Awards (Translational Research):
Applauds scientists who have effectively translated innovative indigenous technologies into market-ready products. (Two awards) -
National Technology Awards (Technology Business Incubators):
Celebrates organizations that have fostered techno-entrepreneurship and supported innovative, technology-driven startups. (One award)
Number of Awards
- National Technology Award (Main): 1
- National Technology Awards (MSME): 3
- National Technology Awards (Start-up): 5
- National Technology Awards (Translational Research): 2
- National Technology Awards (Technology Business Incubator): 1
Ceremony Details
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Announcement:
Awards are announced on National Technology Day (May 11th) each year. -
Award Ceremony:
The awards are conferred on National Space Day (August 23rd) by the Hon’ble President or Vice President of India, typically held at Vigyan Bhavan or another suitable venue. -
Commencement:
The awards will commence from the year 2024.
Benefits
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National Technology Award (Main):
Cash prize of ₹25,00,000 and a trophy. -
National Technology Awards (MSME):
Cash prize of ₹15,00,000. -
National Technology Awards (Start-up):
Cash prize of ₹15,00,000. -
National Technology Awards (Translational Research):
Cash prize of ₹5,00,000 and a trophy. -
National Technology Awards (Technology Business Incubator):
Cash prize of ₹5,00,000.
Awardees also receive a Sanad (certificate) signed by the President of India and a commemorative brochure containing their citation and photograph. In posthumous cases, the award is received by the next of kin. If an awardee is unable to attend the ceremony due to personal reasons, the award is deemed to be conferred on them.
Eligibility
For National Technology Award (Main), MSME, & Start-up:
- Applicant Type:
Only private and public limited companies registered under the Companies Act, 1956/2013 at the Registrar of Companies (ROC) are eligible. - Start-ups:
Only start-ups with DPIIT registration are eligible. - Women-led Enterprises:
Must meet Government of India norms.
For National Technology Award (Translational Research):
- The applicant must hold a regular position in a reputed Indian institute.
- Must have obtained patents, engaged in technology transfer, or licensed technology to Indian industry.
- The technology must be commercialized by an industry partner with revenue generation and significant socio-economic impact.
For National Technology Awards (Technology Business Incubators):
- Applications are invited from Indian organizations/institutions such as Science and Technology Entrepreneurs Parks, Technology Parks, Incubation Centers, Software Technology Parks, etc.
- The organization must be operational for more than 5 years (registered on or before March 2017) and must be a not-for-profit entity (applications from individuals are not considered).
Selection Process
The awards are evaluated by a panel of eminent scientists, technocrats, and researchers nominated by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. The selection process includes rigorous review of the achievements and impact of the technology or innovation.
Application Process
Mode: Online
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Registration:
- Visit the official website.
- Click on the Registration button.
- Choose the type: Individual or Organization.
- For Individuals, provide details as per Aadhaar/valid identity proof (name, date of birth, mobile number, email, Aadhaar number, etc.).
- For Organizations, provide details of the authorized person, a brief description of the organization (100 words), designation, and contact information.
- Submit the registration.
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Application Submission:
- Log in to the portal using your credentials.
- From the list of awards, select “Awards” then click “Nominate / Apply Now.”
- Fill in all mandatory fields in the online application form.
- Submit the application.
Documents Required
- Registration certificate of the applicant or organization.
- Completed application form.
- Relevant organization/institution documents (e.g., annual reports, financial statements).
- ID proof.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are the National Technology Awards?
They are prestigious awards that honor and recognize indigenous technology commercialization, research breakthroughs, and innovative contributions in various sectors. -
In which categories are awards conferred?
Categories include National Technology Award (Main), National Technology Awards (MSME), National Technology Awards (Start-up), National Technology Awards (Translational Research), and National Technology Awards (Technology Business Incubators). -
How many awards are given in each category?
- Main Award: 1
- MSME: 3
- Start-up: 5
- Translational Research: 2
- Technology Business Incubator: 1
-
What is the selection process?
Awards are evaluated by a panel of eminent experts nominated by DST, involving a review of the commercialization and impact of the indigenous technology. -
What are the benefits provided?
Cash prizes ranging from ₹5,00,000 to ₹25,00,000, trophies, certificates, and a commemorative brochure. -
What are the eligibility criteria for the Main, MSME, & Start-up categories?
Only companies registered under the Companies Act, with start-ups requiring DPIIT registration and women-led enterprises as per Government norms are eligible. -
What are the eligibility criteria for the Translational Research category?
Applicants must hold a regular position in a reputed institute and have demonstrated technology transfer, commercialization, and revenue generation. -
What is the application process?
Registration and application submission are done online through the official portal. -
What documents are required for registration?
Registration certificate, completed application form, relevant organizational documents, and ID proof. -
What is the official URL for registration?
Please refer to the official website of the Ministry of Science and Technology.