The New York Academy of Sciences and Tata Sons have announced the Winners of the 2025 Tata Transformation Prize. The prize supports visionary Indian scientists who are developing breakthrough technologies to address major national challenges in Food Security, Sustainability, and Healthcare. By promoting high-impact research, the initiative aims to improve quality of life in India and accelerate the deployment of transformative solutions for global benefit.
Three Winners Selected from Across India
Chosen from 212 nominations across 27 states, the three winners were selected by an international jury of leading scientists, clinicians, technologists, and engineers. As reported by nyas.org, each winner will receive ₹2 crore (USD 228,000) to advance their research and scale its real-world impact. They will be honoured at an awards ceremony in Mumbai in December 2025. The jury included experts from IBM Research, Biocon, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the University of Messina, Murdoch University, IIM Bangalore, the National Institute of Advanced Studies, and CSIR–Central Drug Research Institute.
Food Security Winner: Dr. Padubidri V. Shivaprasad – National Centre for Biological Sciences
Engineering Climate-Resilient, Nutritious Rice. Dr. Padubidri V. Shivaprasad is tackling India’s pressing challenge of feeding a population likely to reach 1.5 billion by 2050. His pioneering work uses epigenetic engineering and small RNA–based modifications to enhance stress tolerance and nutritional value in rice, the country’s most important staple crop. By precisely regulating key genes, his approach moves beyond the limits of traditional breeding, which can be slow and unpredictable. The engineered rice varieties promise to reduce dependence on fertilizers and pesticides, lower costs for farmers, and improve nutrition for millions. This innovation also offers a sustainable model for food security in climate-stressed regions worldwide.
Sustainability Winner: Dr. Balasubramanian Gopal – Indian Institute of Science
Building a Greener Biomanufacturing Future
Dr. Balasubramanian Gopal has developed a green chemistry platform. It uses engineered E. coli to produce key chemicals for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and agriculture. His lab integrates artificial intelligence with experimental biology to design efficient enzymes and optimize microbial strains without antibiotics or harmful additives. This sustainable, low-energy process can replace traditional chemical manufacturing methods and reduce pollution. It also boosts domestic production and strengthens India’s position as a global leader in eco-friendly biomanufacturing.
Healthcare Winner: Dr. Ambarish Ghosh – Indian Institute of Science
Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment with Magnetic Nanorobots
Dr. Ambarish Ghosh is leading groundbreaking research in cancer therapy using magnetic nanorobots. These tiny helical devices travel through the body using controlled magnetic fields to deliver drugs directly to tumors. They can navigate complex biological environments, distinguish healthy cells from cancerous ones, and reduce treatment side effects. His team is also developing real-time imaging tools to track and guide the nanorobots during therapy. This innovation promises more precise and less invasive cancer treatments. It also has the potential to make advanced care more accessible in India and other developing regions.
Leaders Highlight the Power of Scientific Innovation
N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons, said, “The breakthroughs achieved by this year’s winners—climate-resilient crops, sustainable biomanufacturing, and targeted cancer therapies—are remarkable. Their work benefits India and humanity,” he said. “The Tata Group strongly believes in the role of science and technology in advancing human progress.”
Nicholas B. Dirks, President and CEO of The New York Academy of Sciences, added that the prize showcases India’s growing leadership in science. “The 2025 winners demonstrate the power of Indian innovation to drive meaningful global change. Their work reflects the creativity, purpose, and scientific excellence that this prize seeks to honor,” he said.
