Back to Schemes
Science, IT & Communications

National Grassroots Innovation and Outstanding Traditional Knowledge Awards

National Innovation Foundation (NIF)-India, an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, invites entries of unaided technological innovations and traditional knowledge developed at grassroots by an individual (Citizen of India) or group.

Authority

Central

Region

Central Government

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

- Life Time Achievement Award – ₹7,50,000/-, Trophy, Certificate. | - National First Award – ₹5,00,000/-, Trophy, Certificate. | - National Second Award – ₹3,00,000/-, Trophy, Certificate. | - National Third Award – ₹1,00,000/-, Trophy, Certificate. | - State Award – ₹50,000/-, Trophy, Certificate. | - Consolation Award - ₹10,000/-, Trophy, Certificate.

Who can apply

Uneducated or school dropout.; School students (up to class 12) or those out of school and up to 17-18 years of age).; ITI/ Polytechnic diploma students or Diploma holders.; Individual innovators with no professional/ technical training or science/ technology related education.; Individuals affiliated with any formal institution and without duties related to Scientific, Technological (S&T)/ Technical or Research and Development (R&D) related work.; Retired individual innovators with no science/ technology related education and without professional experience of S&T/ R&D activities.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

What Are The Objectives Of National Grassroots Innovation and Outstanding Traditional Knowledge Awards ?

The objectives provide awards for one's creativity, without any technical support from external agencies. Creative ideas for innovative technologies/ techniques solving persistent problems of society, which may not have been developed into prototypes, may also be submitted.

Who organizes these awards?

The National Innovation Foundation (NIF), an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, organizes these awards.

What is the purpose of these awards?

The awards aim to acknowledge and honor innovators and practitioners who have made noteworthy contributions to indigenous knowledge and grassroots innovation.

In which categories are the awards conferred?

The awards are given in various categories, including agriculture, health, energy, engineering, and other sectors that showcase grassroots innovations and traditional knowledge.

What role do these awards play in preserving indigenous cultures?

By acknowledging and rewarding outstanding traditional knowledge practices, these awards play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting indigenous cultures, ensuring their continuity and relevance.

Who can get the scheme benefits?

- Uneducated or school dropout. | - School students (up to class 12) or those out of school and up to 17-18 years of age). | - ITI/ Polytechnic diploma students or Diploma holders. | - Individual innovators with no professional/ technical training or science/ technology related education. | - Individuals affiliated with any formal institution and without duties related to Scientific, Technological (S&T)/ Technical or Research and Development (R&D) related work. | - Retired individual innovators with no science/ technology related education and without professional experience of S&T/ R&D activities.

What is the application process?

- Applicant need to complete the registration process. | - Fill the application form. | - Provide the required documents.

Who can apply for the awards?

- Individual | - Organization

How Individuals can register ?

Step-1: Visit the official website. | Step-2: Click on the Registration button. | Step-3: Choose type Individual. | Step-4: Provide the required details. | Step-5: Submit.

What documents are required ?

- Aadhaar Card. | - Photograph. | - Proof of Age. | - Proof of Address. | - Proof of Educational Qualification (Passing Certificate, Marksheet). | - Proof of Professional Experience. | - Details of work done in the last three years in the field. | - Details of Awards and Honors Received.