Recognition for Young Scientific Excellence
Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025 Honours Dr Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan: The Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025 has been conferred upon Dr Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan, an Associate Professor from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. The award recognises his groundbreaking contributions in computational materials science, a field that integrates artificial intelligence and atomic-level simulations to accelerate materials discovery.
About the Award
Instituted by the Government of Goa, this prestigious award commemorates Manohar Parrikar, India’s former Defence Minister and Chief Minister of Goa, celebrated for his vision of scientific advancement and national development. It aims to honour young Indian researchers who have demonstrated excellence and innovation in science and technology.
The winner receives a citation and a ₹5 lakh cash prize, making it one of the highest-valued science awards in India. The award will be presented at the Manohar Parrikar Vigyan Mahotsav, scheduled for December 2025.
Static GK fact: Manohar Parrikar was India’s first IIT-educated Defence Minister and played a major role in shaping India’s defence research ecosystem.
Selection and Evaluation Process
The 2025 award cycle attracted over 50 applications from top Indian research institutions. The selection committee, chaired by Dr Anil Kakodkar, eminent nuclear scientist and former chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, shortlisted 10 candidates based on research excellence, innovation potential, and the practical impact of their work.
Static GK Tip: Dr Anil Kakodkar was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2009 for his contributions to India’s nuclear energy programme.
Dr Sai Gautam’s Research Achievements
Dr Gopalakrishnan’s research focuses on computational materials science, using advanced atomic-level simulations and machine learning models to design high-performance materials. His innovations enable faster discovery of new alloys and compounds, supporting industries in energy storage, transport, aerospace, and renewable technologies.
By integrating AI algorithms into material prediction models, his work reduces the time and cost associated with traditional laboratory experiments, positioning India as a frontrunner in sustainable industrial technologies.
Significance of the Recognition
This award not only celebrates Dr Gopalakrishnan’s achievements but also symbolizes India’s growing focus on research-driven innovation. It reinforces national efforts toward technological self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and enhances India’s visibility in global scientific research.
Static GK fact: The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) was established in 1909 through the joint efforts of Jamsetji Tata, the Government of India, and the Maharaja of Mysore, and remains India’s premier research institution.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award serves as a motivation for young minds to pursue STEM research and contribute to India’s long-term innovation strategy. It bridges the gap between academic excellence and industrial application, fostering a generation of scientists equipped to solve 21st-century challenges.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025 Honours Dr Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan:
| Topic | Detail |
| Award Name | Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025 |
| Awardee | Dr Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan |
| Institution | Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru |
| Field | Computational Materials Science |
| Instituted By | Government of Goa |
| Selection Committee Chair | Dr Anil Kakodkar |
| Prize | ₹5 lakh and a citation |
| Event | Manohar Parrikar Vigyan Mahotsav, December 2025 |
| Objective | Recognise innovation and excellence among young scientists |
| Static GK Fact | Manohar Parrikar was India’s first IIT-educated Defence Minister |
