ICMR invites research proposals
The Indian Council of Medical Research has invited proposals for its ANVESHAN extramural grants for 2026. The scheme supports innovative health research projects with funding up to Rs 2 crore across priority medical and public health areas
Hyderabad: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has invited research proposals for the 2026 cycle of its “ICMR SMALL Extramural Grants”, also known as the ANVESHAN programme.
The ‘ANVESHAN’ initiative is aimed at supporting investigator-initiated projects that offer innovative solutions to India’s key national health priorities. The grants provide a platform for Indian scientists and researchers to carry out high-impact, time-bound studies across various medical and public health fields.
Under the scheme, selected projects can receive financial support ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 2 crore. The research period is fixed for a maximum duration of three years, ensuring that the projects remain focused and result-oriented.
ICMR is seeking proposals that align with its “4 Ds” framework: Discovery of novel biomarkers or interventions, Development of affordable medical devices and vaccines, Delivery of health system improvements, and Descriptive studies on disease pathogenesis.
Priority will be given to multidisciplinary research addressing key areas such as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Tuberculosis, Maternal and Child Health, and Non-Communicable Diseases such as cancer and mental health. Applicants from medical colleges, universities, and recognised research institutions are encouraged to apply. The submission process is fully online through the ICMR e-PMS portal, and the final deadline to submit proposals is 5 pm on March 16, 2025.