New Delhi, December 14, 2025: The first-ever DV Kapur Foundation Energy Innovation Awards were recently held by the D V Kapur Foundation at the SCOPE Complex in New Delhi., on December 12, 2025. The event celebrated groundbreaking contributions to India’s energy sector, focusing on innovative solutions that meet the country’s growing energy needs and support sustainable development goals.
The event was distinguished by the presence of Ajay Kumar Sood, the Chief Scientific Advisor to India’s Government, who presented the awards. Notable attendees included Dr. Suresh Prabhu, who previously served as a Union Minister and currently holds the position of Chairman at the DV Kapur Foundation.; Dr. Anil Kakodkar, who previously served as the Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and head of the Grand Jury; Dr. D V Kapur, the individual who established the Foundation and served as the inaugural Chairman of NTPC Ltd.; Shri R V Shahi, former Secretary (Ministry of Power) and a trustee of the Foundation; Dr Ajay Mathur, former Director General of the International Solar Alliance; and Dr Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT-Delhi, along with top leaders from NTPC and other influential figures from the energy sector.
The awards were segmented into two categories. The first category recognized young innovators below the age of 38, and the second category honored established individuals or organizations for technological innovation. Dr Achu Chandran, Principal Scientist at CSIR-NIIST, was awarded in the first category for his development of a ‘Nano Electricity Generator’, receiving a citation, trophy, and a cash reward of Rs 1 Lakh. In the second category, NTPC’s research and development wing, NETRA received recognition for their progress in developing environmentally friendly coal technologies.. Shri Shaswattam, Executive Director of NETRA, accepted the award on behalf of his team, which included a citation, trophy, and a cash prize of Rs 10 Lakhs.
The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to fostering technological innovation within the energy sector, emphasizing support for research and development that facilitates India’s transition to clean energy.
During his speech, Prof Ajay Kumar Sood highlighted the critical relationship between a nation’s development and its energy consumption, pointing out India’s efforts to balance its economic aspirations with sustainable energy use. He underscored the significance of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation in propelling India towards advanced technological research and a developed economy.
Dr Suresh Prabhu praised the visionary role of Dr DV Kapur in both NTPC and the formation of the awards, highlighting the transformative impact on energy innovations. Dr Anil Kakodar spoke about the meticulous selection process for the awards and encouraged senior leaders to mentor and support young innovators in their contributions to national development.
The ceremony was a noteworthy gathering of elite figures in the energy domain, celebrating innovative achievements and discussing future pathways for the energy sector in India.
