The Dr Kasturirangan Trust was launched in Bengaluru on 25 October to support young researchers, promote scientific research and encourage solutions to societal challenges. It will focus on four areas: space and technology, education, sustainability and public policy. Its first initiative, the Dr Kasturirangan 2027 Fellowship, will support six PhD and post-doctoral researchers, with nominations open from 27 October to 31 December 2026.
What the Trust aims to do
The Trust aims to carry forward the legacy of Dr Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, whose work over six decades contributed to India’s development in space, science and technology, and education. It plans to support researchers through fellowships, scholarships and grants. Its activities will also include conferences, support for book-writing and scientific curation, and collaborations with institutions in India and abroad to promote research and inform public policy.
How it is set up
The Trust will operate as a non-profit, non-political public charitable trust, governed by a Board of Trustees, an Advisory Board and an Executive Council. Its work is to be guided by the principles of responsible research, compassion, excellence and respect for nature. It aims to build an institution focused on future-oriented research, thought leadership and practical problem-solving.
The 2027 fellowship
The Dr Kasturirangan 2027 Fellowship will support six PhD and post-doctoral researchers whose work spans more than one of the four focus areas and has practical applications. Each fellow will receive a one-time grant of ₹4 lakh towards research costs, along with mentorship, opportunities to present their work at two workshops each year and access to a growing peer community.
Who can be nominated
The fellowship is open to candidates who submitted their PhD thesis between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2026. In the inaugural year, nominations must come either from a group of eminent individuals who knew Dr Kasturirangan or from leading universities. The Trust plans to introduce an open application process in later years.
Key dates
Nominations open on 27 October 2026 and close on 31 December 2026. The first cohort of fellows is scheduled to be announced on 25 April 2027.
Why it matters for young researchers
Through its research support programs and institutional collaborations, the Trust aims to create opportunities for emerging researchers and encourage interdisciplinary work on India’s scientific, social and development priorities.
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