Teachers who have a doctorate degree and have shown excellence in their fields are considered for the award. The Research Award is given to only those lecturers, senior lecturers, and selection-grade lecturers, readers and professors who are in continuous regular service in a recognised institution on permanent posts and are under 45 years of age at the time of submission of their application. In the case of Women, SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/ Physically Handicapped. Minorities the age limit shall be 50 years. The awardee will be eligible to avail of the Research Award only once.