Nanoceramic comprising of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) with Pb1-xLax(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O-3 where x = 0.03, 0.05 and 0.07 was successfully synthesized using mechanical activation method. The material was characterized for DT/TGA and TEM studies. A pyrochlore-free single phase of PZT was obtained, for the powder calcined at 850 degrees C for 2 h. XRD data has revealed the formation of pervoskite PZT phase. During the process a substantially dense PZT (theoretical density similar to 97%) was obtained indicating the finer microstructure leading nanometric particle size. This was subsequently proved by recording the SEM micrographs. The samples were analyzed for their dielectric and piezoelectric properties, which were comparable to the powder processed by other routes. This study suggests the usefulness of the synthesis (sintering at lower temperature -1175 degrees C) of La-doped PZT by mechanical activation route. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.