The Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences (TAAS) has instituted a new Dr S.K. Vasal Young Scientist Award for Innovation in Hybrid Research. This Award is to recognise the contributions of a young scientist (both men and women) who has shown professional excellence and leadership in innovation relating to hybrid research that is efficient, cost-effective and relatively less time requiring. The efforts be, therefore, based on maximum use of plant genetic resources. This Award is to encourage young scientists who have worked with utmost dedication to evolve innovative hybrids that have impacted or likely to increase both productivity and production. The Award will be given annually to an Indian scientist and carries a citation with cash prize of Rupees One lakh.