Maharashtra Hikes Science Exhibition Prize Money to Encourage Student Innovation
Mumbai, 26th March 2026: In a significant step to promote scientific curiosity among students, the Government of Maharashtra has approved a substantial increase in prize money for state-level science exhibitions, effective from the 2026–27 academic year.
The announcement was made by School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, who said the initiative aims to foster innovation, creativity, and research-driven learning among young students in alignment with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020.
Under the revised reward structure, participants across primary and secondary student categories, along with teachers, laboratory assistants, and support staff, will receive enhanced cash prizes. First-place winners in each category will be awarded ₹51,000, while second, third, and fourth positions will receive ₹31,000, ₹21,000, and ₹11,000, respectively.
Additionally, three consolation prizes of ₹10,000 each have been introduced to widen recognition. In a notable move towards inclusivity, students from tribal communities and differently-abled backgrounds will now be eligible for cash awards across multiple ranks, expanding opportunities beyond the top positions.
The state government has earmarked a budget of ₹12.96 crore for the initiative.
Officials stated that the revised incentives are expected to strengthen participation in the multi-tier selection process, which begins at the taluka and district levels before culminating in the state exhibition. The move is also aimed at encouraging greater representation from Maharashtra in national platforms such as the INSPIRE Hackathon.
Speaking on the initiative, Bhuse подчеркed the importance of nurturing scientific thinking beyond classroom learning. He said the enhanced rewards acknowledge the dedication of young innovators and expressed confidence that the move would help cultivate the next generation of scientists and researchers.
