National Research Foundation Bill cleared

Last Updated09/08/2023

The Lok Sabha recently passed the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill 2023.

It aims to set up the National Research Foundation (NRF).
It will be an apex body to provide high-level strategic direction of scientific research in the country as per recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
- It replaces the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008.
It seeks to set up a Rs 50,000-crore fund, with a sizeable contribution from the private sector
- To "seed, grow and promote" research and development (R&D)
- To foster a culture of research and innovation throughout India's universities, colleges, research institutions, and R&D laboratories.

It will forge collaborations among the industry, academia, and government departments and research institutions.
It will create an interface mechanism for the participation and contribution of industries and state governments in addition to the scientific and line ministries.
It will focus on creating a policy framework and putting in place regulatory processes that can encourage collaboration and increased spending by the industry on R&D.

It will have a governing board consisting of 15 to 25 eminent researchers and professionals.
It will be presided over by the Prime Minister of India who will be the ex-officio president.
The education minister and the science and technology Minister will be the vice presidents of the NRF.
An executive council to manage day-to-day affairs under the principal scientific adviser.
The NRF will be “administratively” managed by the Department of Science and Technology.

Anusandhan National Research Foundation Fund
- For the financing of activities under the Act.
Innovation Fund
- For supporting outstanding creativity in the areas supported by the foundation
Science and Engineering Research Fund
- For the continuation of the projects and programmes initiated under the Science and Engineering Research Board Act, 2008.
One or more special-purpose funds for any specific project or research.