Why is it in the news?

• The Ministry of Science and Technology has initiated the first-ever National Science Award called “Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar.” This new award will replace over 300 previously existing awards.

About RVP

• RVP aims to recognize outstanding and inspiring scientific, technological, and innovation contributions made by researchers, technologists, and innovators.
• Awards will be given across four categories: Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri, Vigyan Yuva: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar, and Vigyan Team.
• Posthumous awards will be given only in exceptional cases.
• The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on August 23rd, coinciding with National Space Day, which is noteworthy for the Chandrayaan-3 mission’s soft landing.