Scientific temper
Asking questions, testing assumptions and trusting evidence over opinion.
The RYSI Award
Where curiosity becomes real science.
A national science-awards programme that rewards original thinking and hands-on experiments, open to school students across India in grades 3 to 10.
What it is
Science you do, not science you memorise.
The Raman Young Science Innovator (RYSI) award invites students to choose a real-world question, design and run a hands-on experiment to investigate it, and present what they discover.
Named in honour of Nobel laureate Sir C.V. Raman, RYSI has run every year since 2017. It is built on a simple belief: children learn science best by doing it. Rather than testing recall, the programme rewards observation, reasoning and the courage to test an idea, the habits of a real scientist.
Who it's for
Three categories, one curiosity
Any school student studying in India from grades 3 to 10 can take part, entered through their school or independently. Projects are judged within their grade band.
Grades 3–4
Junior
Our youngest scientists explore everyday phenomena through simple, guided experiments and clear observation.
Why it matters
What students take away
RYSI is not only about the final award. The journey itself builds skills that last well beyond the contest.
Confidence
Presenting an idea to scientists and peers, and defending it with reason.
Resilience
Learning that a result that surprises you is a finding, not a failure.
Communication
Explaining a complex idea clearly, in words and in a working model.
The recognition
What winners receive
Awards are given in each of the three grade categories at the national finals. Every national qualifier and finalist is recognised for taking part.
Category Winner
- A cash award
- The national winner's trophy and certificate
- An annual ThinkTac experiential-science programme subscription
Runner-up
- A cash award
- A certificate of merit
- An annual ThinkTac programme subscription
Recognition for all
- Certificates for finalists and qualifiers
- Recognition for the work put into their experiments and submissions
Explore the programme
Everything you need to take part
Overview & FAQThe mission, the categories, and answers to common questions.How it worksThe stages a project moves through, from school to the finals.Key datesRegistration, submission and finals dates for the current season.Rules & eligibilityWho can enter, how projects are judged, and the code of conduct.The National FinalsWhat happens when finalists meet the jury in person.Past winnersBrowse finalists, qualifiers and winners from every edition.
Ready to enter a young scientist?
Registration opens each year in July. Nominate a student through your school or on your own.