Research Institutions in India
India has a long history of research back to ancient times, but formal scientific research started during the British colonial period in the 19th century. Nowadays, India has become a global player in areas such as space research (e.g., Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions), biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. National institutes like IITs, IISc, NIPGR, and others continue to lead in research and innovation across various fields.
Top Life Science Research Labs in India
Indian Esteemed Institutions
Several Institutions in India are highly esteemed for their academic excellence and research contributions. These includes IITs, IIMs, IISc and few central universities.
Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS)
IACS is the first research institution in India, established in 1876 in Kolkata, dedicated to the advancement of scientific knowledge. Founded by Dr. Mahendralal Sircar, a physician and visionary, IACS’s primary objective was to promote scientific research and education in India, fostering a spirit of inquiry and innovation among Indian scientists. One of the most significant achievements of IACS is the work of Sir C.V. Raman, who discovered the “Raman Effect” at IACS in 1928. This discovery later earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian to win a Nobel Prize in a scientific field. Other notable scientists associated with IACS include K.S. Krishnan, Satyendra Nath Bose, and Meghnad Saha, who made significant contributions in fields like quantum mechanics and theoretical physics.
IISc (Indian Institute of Science)
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), established in 1909 in Bangalore, is the premier research institution in India for advanced research and higher education in science and engineering. Founded through the collaborative efforts of industrialist Jamsetji Tata, the Maharaja of Mysore, and the British government, IISc has played a central role in shaping India’s scientific landscape. It is globally renowned for its pioneering contributions to scientific research and innovation.
CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)
Founded in 1942, became the leading network of laboratories conducting multidisciplinary research across the country. Few of them are situated at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
NBRI (National Botanical Research Institution)
The National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), located in Lucknow, is a premier research institution in India under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Established in 1953, NBRI is dedicated to conducting advanced research in various aspects of plant sciences to conserve plant diversity, enhance agricultural productivity, and promote the sustainable use of plant resources. The herbarium collection of NBRI is third largest in country, contains about 2,86,927 speciments, of which 1,00,369 belongs to angiosperms, 500 to gymnosperms and others. NBRI manages a large (65 acres) and well-maintained botanical garden, which is one of the oldest in India. The garden is a hub for ex-situ conservation, showcasing a wide variety of plant species, including medicinal and economically important plants.
CIMAP (Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants)
The Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) is a premier research institution in India, specializing in the cultivation, processing, and utilization of medicinal and aromatic plants. Located in Lucknow, CIMAP operates under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and focuses on multidisciplinary research in areas like plant biotechnology, genetics, and natural product chemistry. It plays a pivotal role in developing sustainable technologies for the herbal and fragrance industries, supporting farmers, and promoting the use of medicinal plants for health and wellness. Investigating the medicinal properties of plant compounds for potential therapeutic applications in modern medicine. Providing training and support to farmers and entrepreneurs in cultivating and processing medicinal and aromatic plants, helping promote rural development and economic growth.
CDRI (Central Drug Research Institute)
The Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) is a premier Indian research institution under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), based in Lucknow. CDRI focuses on drug discovery and development in various therapeutic areas, including infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. The institute’s research spans multiple stages of drug development, from basic biological research and chemical synthesis to preclinical and clinical studies. Utilizing modern biotechnological tools and genomic approaches to identify drug targets and biomarkers for disease. CDRI is developing advanced drug delivery systems and formulations for enhancing drug efficacy and bioavailability. It is also investigating traditional medicinal plants and developing standardized herbal formulations for therapeutic use.
DBT (Department of Biotechnology) Institutions
NIPGR (National Institute of Plant Genome Research)
The National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) is an autonomous research institution in India, established under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. Located in New Delhi, NIPGR focuses on advanced research in plant genomics and biotechnology, to improve crop productivity, enhance resistance to environmental stress, and develop sustainable agricultural practices. Research staple crops like rice, wheat, and millet to develop high-yield, climate-resilient varieties for improving food security. It is also working on Identification of genes and pathways involved in plant responses to drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures, to engineer stress-tolerant crops.
ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) Institutions
Established in 1929, ICAR operates under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of India, and plays a pivotal role in promoting agricultural development, innovation, and sustainability in the country.
IARI (Indian Agricultural Research Institution)
The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), also known as the “Pusa Institute,” is India’s premier national institute for agricultural research, education, and extension. It operates under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and is based in New Delhi. IARI plays a vital role in advancing agricultural science and technology, contributing to the Green Revolution, and improving crop productivity in India. Researching eco-friendly agricultural techniques, organic farming, and integrated pest management to promote sustainability in agriculture. IARI studying soil health, nutrient management, and water conservation strategies to optimize land and resource use for improved agricultural productivity. It has developing strategies for the control of crop diseases, pests, and weeds through biological control and chemical management.
Which is the oldest research institute in India?
Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS)
Where is first Indian Research institute established ?
IACS was established during the British colonial period, in 1876, in Kolkata
Who is the founder of IACS?
IACS Founded by a Physician Dr. Mahendralal Sircar