for Bridging Science and Society
GUIDELINES
1. About the Award
The “Shri B S Vyas Memorial Award for Bridging Science and Society” has been instituted by Vigyan Setu Foundation (VSF) in memory of its Founder President, Late Shri B S Vyas, whose life and work exemplified the integration of scientific knowledge with societal welfare. The Award seeks to honour individuals whose sustained contributions have strengthened the interface between science and society and have promoted scientific awareness, rational thinking, innovation outreach, environmental consciousness, and inclusive public engagement with science.
2. Objectives
The Award aims to:
- Recognize impactful societal contributions rooted in science;
- Promote scientific temper and public understanding of science;
- Encourage grassroots scientific initiatives;
- Honour communicators, educators, innovators, activists, and outreach workers;
- Inspire future generations towards socially relevant science engagement.
3. Fields of Consideration
Contributions may relate to one or more of the following domains:
- Science Communication
- Public Engagement with Science
- Scientific Literacy
- Environmental Awareness
- Sustainability Outreach
- Community Science Initiatives
- Grassroots Innovation
- Rural Science Dissemination
- Educational Transformation through Science
- Health and Science Awareness
- Citizen Science
- Indigenous Knowledge and Scientific Integration
4. Eligibility Criteria
- Open to individuals from any discipline or profession
- Minimum ten (10) years of meaningful contribution
- Contributions must demonstrate societal relevance and measurable impact
- Individual applicants only (unless modified by the VSF in future editions)
- Previous recipients shall ordinarily not be reconsidered
- S/he must be working for and residing in Bharat
5. Nomination Procedure
Who Can Nominate
Nominations may be submitted by:
- Universities and colleges
- Scientific institutions
- NGOs/Trusts/Societies
- Government organizations
- Eminent individuals
- Self-nominations
Documents Required
- Completed nomination form
- Detailed profile/CV
- Supporting documents
- Evidence of contribution
- Recommendation letters (optional but desirable)
Link for Nomination Form: https://forms.gle/rhqxkbGLv23hdVMj7
6. Evaluation Process
The evaluation shall be conducted by an independent Jury constituted by Vigyan Setu Foundation.
The Jury may include:
- Scientists
- Educators
- Science communicators
- Social leaders
- Environmental experts
- Policy professionals
Evaluation shall broadly consider:
- Depth and duration of contribution
- Public impact
- Innovation
- Inclusivity
- Sustainability
- Inspirational value
The decision of the Jury shall be final
7. Nature of the Award
The Award may include:
- Citation
- Memento / Plaque
8. Timeline (2026 Edition)
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Announcement of Award | 05 June 2026 |
| Opening of Nominations | 05 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Submission | 31 August 2026 |
| Jury Review | Sept–Oct 2026 |
| Declaration of Awardee | November 2026 |
| Award Presentation | 12 December 2026 |
9. Terms and Conditions
- Incomplete nominations may be rejected
- The VSF reserves the right to seek additional information
- Canvassing in any form shall lead to disqualification
- The VSF reserves the right to withhold the Award in any year
- Submission of nomination implies acceptance of all rules and conditions
- The VSF may publish details of awardees for academic and promotional purposes
10. About Shri B S Vyas
Late Shri B S Vyas was a visionary, science enthusiast, social thinker, and institution builder whose efforts inspired the establishment of Vigyan Setu Foundation. His work reflected a deep commitment towards scientific awareness, societal upliftment, and dissemination of knowledge among common people.
The Award commemorates his enduring legacy and vision of connecting science with society for collective progress.
11. Contact Information
For queries related to nominations, guidelines, or submission process, please contact Vigyan Setu Foundation through the email vigyansetu.foundation@gmail.com
“Science becomes meaningful when it reaches Society.” — In memory of Shri B S Vyas
