61 Young Researchers Showcase 20 Independent Research Projects at Anveshana 2026

 by Pranita Kurani 

Ø  Two-day finale of Prayoga’s student research programme celebrates curiosity, scientific inquiry and the next generation of researchers

Ø  Four projects emerged as the top-performing projects among the 20 research projects presented at Anveshana 2026,

Bengaluru, August 23, 2026: What happens when school students are given the freedom, mentorship and resources to conduct advanced research using state of the art facilities with real world applications?  Anveshana 2026 offered a compelling answer.

The two-day finale of Anveshana 2026, the student research programme of Prayoga Institute of Education Research, brought together 61 young researchers presenting 20 independent research projects showcasing the depth, diversity and rigour of scientific inquiry possible at the school level – from grades 9 to 12. This year, students from across India including Leh participated in this five month  research programme.

The final stage of the programme began on Saturday at the Prayoga campus, where all 20 project teams presented their research to expert jury panels. Two jury committees evaluated 10 projects each in parallel, examining the students’ research questions, methodology, evidence, findings and ability to communicate their work.

Following the evaluation, four projects emerged as the top-performing projects and were shortlisted for oral presentations at the final showcase on Sunday.

First Place: A Multiscale Computational Approach Combining Molecular Docking, Enhanced Sampling Molecular Dynamics and Drug-like Properties of Some Bioactive Compounds

Second Place: Qualitative Analysis of Pesticide Residues, Harmful Chemicals and Metal Contaminants in Tea Brands Sold in India

Third Place: Rapid Bioconversion of Kitchen Waste into Compost-like Soil Using a Thermophilic Microbial-Enzyme System

Fourth Place: Green Coagulation of Natural Latex and Development of Sustainable Composites Using Waste Plant Fibre

All projects were presented through a poster exhibition, ensuring that all 20 teams had the opportunity to share their research with an audience comprising researchers, educators, industry representatives and parents.

The event was attended by Tejasvi Surya, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Bangalore South, Manu Saale, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), Dr Renata Jovanovic, Chief Scientific Officer, Deloitte South Asia, and Pratyush Mehrotra, President & COO, SBI Foundation along with other dignitairies.

Speaking on the occasion, Tejasvi Surya said: “Anveshana can help build a strong culture of research in India. Programmes like Prayoga’s Anveshana create a valuable opportunity for young minds to move beyond textbooks and engage with research, experimentation and scientific inquiry at an early age. The 61 students presenting their work today are not just demonstrating what they have learnt; they are showing us the potential of India’s next generation of researchers and innovators. India’s future growth will depend greatly on how effectively we harness the curiosity, creativity and scientific talent of our young people. By encouraging students to question, investigate and develop solutions, initiatives like Anveshana can help build a strong culture of research and development in the country. This spirit of innovation aligns closely with Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s vision of a Viksit Bharat, where our youth are not merely participants in India’s growth story but are among its key drivers.’’

Congratulating the students, Manu Saale, said, “Anveshana is a remarkable platform that demonstrates what young minds can achieve when they are given the freedom to question, explore and solve real-world problems. The quality of research and the way these students articulated their projects was truly impressive. What particularly excites me is the growing opportunity for industry in India to engage with and support young researchers. The days of India merely executing ideas are giving way to an era where we identify complex problem statements and develop solutions from India for the world. At Mercedes-Benz R&D Centre India, we see immense potential in the work being undertaken by these students, with several of their research areas having direct relevance to mobility and automotive technology.’’

The impact of Anveshana extends well beyond the annual showcase. Over the years, research emerging from the programme has contributed to international peer-reviewed publications, while some student projects have progressed towards patent applications.