The upper age restriction for Infosys Prize recipients has been decreased from 50 to 40 years old by the Infosys Science Foundation, "to reward potential and recognise the promise of future achievement," the non-profit trust said on May 15.

"Recognizing the best research that benefits humanity and creates role models for young scholars and aspiring scientists in India remains the fundamental objective of the Infosys Prize," the announcement stated.

The Infosys Science Foundation grants prizes every year to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of modern scientists and researchers in six fields: economics, computer science and engineering, humanities and social sciences, life sciences, mathematics, and physical sciences. A gold medal, a citation, and a purse worth $100,000 (about Rs 83 lakh) are awarded for each winner. The goal of the prize is to recognize outstanding research and encourage the next generation of academics to pursue careers in science and research.

According to the organization, all recipients who were not in India when they received the prize must now spend time at any Indian institutions of their choosing. In order to foster relationships and start discussions with research groups, winners who are not located in India will be expected to spend 30 days (during a maximum of two visits) at a host institute in India.

The Science Foundation expects that these first ties will develop into long-term, mutually beneficial alliances.

Since the foundation's founding 15 years ago, 92 individuals from many fields have received recognition and awards.

According to Kris Gopalakrishnan, president of the Infosys Science Foundation, the decision to reorient the Infosys Prize is based on the goal of fostering a new generation of young scholars who are enthusiastic about pursuing careers in science and giving them more time to develop their work that may have societal benefits.

Gopalakrishnan was cited in the announcement as stating, "We believe that this redirection will help serve as a catalyst for future innovation and mobilize young individuals towards shaping a better tomorrow."