100 "innovation champions" to receive state support

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced Wednesday that 100 people who have played a leading role in encouraging innovation in basic disciplines will be selected by the government to receive extra support this year. The "innovation champions" will be selected as part of a national plan to promote innovation in basic science and other disciplines, the ministry said. The plan, launched earlier this year, will also award state grants to 10,000 people who have excelled in their respective disciplines, including the natural and social sciences, the ministry said. The 10,000 recipients, as well as people attracted from overseas through the government-funded "Thousand Talents Program," will be leading forces for Chinese innovation, according to the plan. Those who are selected will receive financial support, as well as other opportunities, according to the plan.