The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is one of the strongest contenders as a power source for space, electric vehicle and domestic applications. Since 1988 intensive research is being carried out at our centre to develop PEMFCs. The main R&D activities are: (i) to develop a method for the electrode preparation (ii) to enhance platinum utilisation using low platinum loading and (iii) to design multicell stacks. The results of R&D development of the above activities are discussed in this payer.