Here’s some great news for India’s science and research community — Blockchain For Impact, a non-profit founded during the pandemic, has just launched the National Science Prizes. The total prize money? A whopping ₹20 crore.
These awards aim to shine a spotlight on researchers, scientists, and innovators who are doing remarkable work across fields like biomedical science, public health, and beyond. It’s all about recognising talent, encouraging bold ideas, and giving science the respect and support it truly deserves.
A Vision Rooted in Giving Back
The idea comes from Sandeep Nailwal — a young tech entrepreneur, innovator, and philanthropist. If the name sounds familiar, he’s also the Co-founder and CEO of the Polygon Foundation. With these prizes, he’s giving back to the country that gave him so much.
As Sandeep puts it:
“India has always had brilliant scientific minds. Through the National Science Prizes, I want to empower those researchers and innovators who are trying to solve India’s biggest health challenges. This is about creating a culture that respects and celebrates innovation.”
The Awards – Who Can Win and What’s on Offer?
There are four types of awards — each thoughtfully designed to reward excellence at different levels.
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Lifetime Achievement Award
This one’s for two legendary figures in Indian science and health. Each of them receives ₹25 lakh. -
Sandeep Nailwal India First Award
It’s for three researchers or entrepreneurs of Indian origin, who may be living abroad but are moving back to India to work on biomedical science or public health. Each of them will get a massive ₹2.5 crore to help scale their work here. -
Sandeep Nailwal Award for Global Excellence
This one’s for two individuals anywhere in the world whose work has made a global impact in biomedical research or public health. Each gets ₹5 crore — one of the biggest science prizes we’ve seen. -
Young Indian Scientist Award
This celebrates young Indian innovators under the age of 40 who are building powerful solutions in healthcare, science, or even cross-sector innovation. Each winner will receive ₹50 lakh.
Honouring Legends of Indian Science
To kick things off, the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Awards were given to two incredible minds — Padma Shri Dr. Balram Bhargava and Dr. Vijay Chandru. These two have made lifelong contributions to Indian science and healthcare, and they were honoured at Vimarsh, a major science conclave hosted by Blockchain For Impact.
Who Is Blockchain For Impact?
Blockchain For Impact (BFI) started during India’s second COVID-19 wave, with a mission to bring transparency and impact to healthcare funding. Since then, it has grown into something much bigger.
Now, BFI focuses on early detection, prevention, and building long-term health systems. One of its major projects is the BFI-BIOME Virtual Network, which brings together research institutes, startups, medical companies, and innovators under one digital umbrella. Backed by USD 15 million, this network is fast-tracking the creation of new therapies, medical devices, and diagnostics.
A Bold Step Toward a Healthier, Smarter India
What’s really inspiring is that BFI isn’t just about research — it’s about people. Especially those in marginalised communities who often get left out of quality healthcare. The organisation’s ultimate goal is to create a future where innovation, accessibility, and health equity go hand in hand.
The National Science Prizes are more than just big cheques. They’re a powerful message — that India believes in its scientists, values innovation, and is ready to invest in a better tomorrow. With efforts like these from Sandeep Nailwal and Blockchain For Impact, the future of Indian science looks not just bright, but unstoppable.
