The Tata Transformation Prize, in collaboration with Tata Sons and the New York Academy of Sciences, recognizes Indian scientists for transformative research with global impact. This year's recipients, Professors C Anandharamakrishnan, Amartya Mukhopadhyay, and Raghavan Varadarajan, were honored for groundbreaking contributions in healthcare, energy, and nutrition.
The prize, which received 169 entries from 18 states, offers each laureate INR 2 crore (US$ 240,000). The winners were selected by a jury from top institutions including Apple and IBM Research. The award ceremony will take place in Mumbai in December.
C Anandharamakrishnan (CSIR) was recognized for developing a rice variety to combat malnutrition and diabetes, improving food security.
Amartya Mukhopadhyay (IIT Bombay) earned the prize for creating sodium-ion batteries, offering a more sustainable, cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion technology.
Raghavan Varadarajan (IISc Bangalore) developed a low-cost RSV vaccine, potentially reducing mortality rates for vulnerable populations.
These innovations aim to address critical societal challenges and enhance India's global technological standing.