In a landmark step to strengthen India’s research and innovation ecosystem, the country has launched the India Reimagined Fellowship, a global initiative designed to attract exceptional scientific, entrepreneurial, and clinical talent from across the world. The programme aims to accelerate innovation in biomedical sciences and public health, positioning India as a global hub for cutting-edge research and sustainable impact-driven projects.
The fellowship has been launched by Blockchain for Impact (BFI), a global philanthropic organization that supports science-led innovation. Each selected fellow will receive a grant of USD 300,000 (approximately ₹2.5 crore) spread over three years to develop sustainable “impact engines” — initiatives that address key public health and biomedical challenges in India.
Funding Structure and Disbursement
The India Reimagined Fellowship 2026 follows a transparent and performance-based funding model. Each fellow will receive funding in three annual tranches of USD 100,000 (approximately ₹88 lakh), which will be disbursed directly to the host institution in India rather than the individual.
The grant will cover all essential research expenses, including project execution, laboratory operations, salaries, travel, and equipment costs. To maintain compliance and accountability, only FCRA-approved institutions will be eligible to host fellows.
Host institutions are required to set up a dedicated project account for fund management and submit annual progress and financial reports. Continued disbursement will depend on mid-term and final evaluations by expert review panels assessing research milestones, publications, and innovation outcomes. The final tranche will be released after a successful mid-term review and submission of a comprehensive project completion report.
How to Apply for India Reimagined Fellowship
The fellowship operates through institutional nominations only — individual applications are not accepted, ensuring strong institutional commitment and oversight.
The structured application process includes the following steps:
- Identify a Suitable Candidate: The host institution must nominate a researcher, entrepreneur, clinician, or innovator of Indian or international origin who is willing to relocate to India and undertake impactful work in biomedical or public health innovation.
- Institutional Commitment: The host organization must commit to providing research infrastructure, fund management, and regulatory compliance support.
- Prepare the Nomination Package: The nomination must include:
- The nominee’s detailed CV
- A 10-page research or innovation proposal
- Recommendation letters
- An institutional commitment letter
- Submit Application: Complete nomination packages should be emailed to india.reimagined@blockchainforimpact.nl by January 31, 2026.
Selections will be made on a rolling basis, and final decisions will be announced within 12 weeks of submission.
Strengthening India’s Science and Innovation Ecosystem
With only three fellowships available, the India Reimagined Fellowship is highly competitive, focusing on attracting high-impact global talent capable of driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and translational research within Indian institutions.
By combining international expertise with India’s expanding scientific infrastructure, this fellowship underscores the country’s growing commitment to building a world-class research ecosystem. It reflects India’s broader vision of becoming a global leader in biomedical and public health innovation, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
The India Reimagined Fellowship 2026 not only provides substantial financial support but also lays the foundation for transformative ideas that can improve lives and advance India’s standing in global science and innovation, for more details and apply CLICK HERE
