Call for
Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Grants for Translational Agriculture Research
Application Deadline:
10 May 2025
About Organisation
The Sree Padmavathi Venkateswara Foundation is committed to fostering impactful research that uplifts communities, particularly in rural India. Inspired by the teachings of spiritual leaders like Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the foundation emphasizes science-driven, socially relevant initiatives that bridge the gap between research and real-world implementation. With a focus on inclusive development, the foundation supports projects that promise last-mile connectivity and direct benefits to marginalized populations. In the agricultural domain, it seeks to enable small and marginal farmers through innovative solutions, improved livelihood opportunities, and sustainable practices. The foundation provides not just funding but also tangible infrastructure support—including access to agricultural land and workshops in Andhra Pradesh—for the practical demonstration of research outcomes. This ensures that solutions are not only theoretical but also validated and ready for deployment. By supporting translational research, the foundation promotes a culture of innovation that responds directly to the needs of the Indian farming community, aiming for systemic change at the grassroots level. Its holistic approach combines funding, field access, and scientific rigor to create real-world impact.
About the Grant
The Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Grants for Translational Agriculture Research are designed to empower science-backed innovations that address real challenges faced by small and marginal farmers in India. Administered by the Sree Padmavathi Venkateswara Foundation, the grant supports high-quality translational research in agricultural sciences that are ready for immediate implementation. Projects may focus on diverse areas such as climate-resilient farming, post-harvest technologies, soil and water management, organic and precision farming, AI and IoT in agriculture, and other related fields. The ultimate goal is to create sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective solutions that directly enhance rural livelihoods. In addition to funding, grantees will receive free access to farmland and workshop facilities in Andhra Pradesh for pilot testing and demonstration purposes. The grant encourages practical research that results in innovative and deployable outcomes rather than purely theoretical advancements. Funding is allocated for a two-year period, with a focus on tangible, measurable impact. This initiative reflects the foundation’s dedication to translating science into action for the benefit of India’s agricultural sector and rural economy.
Who can Apply?
Eligible applicants include individuals and research teams from recognized universities, R&D institutions, and non-profit research organizations in India. Both single-institution and multi-institutional proposals are accepted. International collaborations are permitted, provided the lead institution is Indian, and all funding is utilized solely within India. If collaborating internationally, applicants must clearly justify the necessity and added value of such partnerships, along with addressing any regulatory requirements such as material transfer or government approvals.
Applicants must already have a salaried position and support from their host institution, as the grant does not cover investigators’ salaries. Infrastructure and administrative backing from the host organization is essential before application submission.
Age criteria are also applied: Principal Investigators must be no older than 50 years as of 30th April 2025. For women Principal Investigators, the age limit is extended to 55 years.
The grant prioritizes projects that are application-ready, grounded in scientific excellence, and focused on improving the quality of life for small and marginal farmers. Proposals should emphasize immediate deployment potential and the ability to create lasting, positive change in agricultural communities.
How to Apply?
Applicants should prepare a detailed proposal outlining the project’s objectives, scientific approach, expected outcomes, and implementation plan. Proposals must also include the applicant’s eligibility, institutional backing, and, if applicable, the rationale for international collaboration. All submissions must follow the format specified by the Sree Padmavathi Venkateswara Foundation and be submitted before the stated deadline through the prescribed channel.
Application Deadline
All proposals must be submitted by 10th May 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted, so applicants are advised to begin preparations well in advance to ensure timely completion.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to apply for the Sree Ramakrishna Paramahamsa Translational Agriculture Research Grant is 10 May 2025. Applications must be submitted before midnight on this date.
Grant Amount
The total grant amount is up to ₹50 lakh for a duration of two years. Funds will be released in two tranches, each not exceeding ₹25 lakh per year.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
