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The Indian Ministry of Science and Technology has recently given its approval for the introduction of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023, in the Parliament. This marks a significant shift in the country’s focus towards fostering strategic scientific research.
Features of the National Research Foundation Bill 2023
The NRF Bill, once approved by the Parliament, will establish the NRF as an apex body crafted to provide a high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India. The establishment of the NRF follows the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP), with an estimated cost of Rs. 50,000 crores spanning over five years (2023-28).
Furthermore, the bill aims to subsume the existing Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), established in 2008, into the NRF. The NRF has a broader mandate that includes various activities surpassing those of SERB.
Administration and Governance of the NRF
The administrative duties of the NRF will be managed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). A Governing Board, comprising distinguished researchers and professionals from various disciplines, will govern the NRF. In addition, the Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and Union Minister of Education will act as ex-officio Vice-Presidents.
About the National Research Foundation
The principal objective of the NRF is to ensure equitable conduction and funding of scientific research. Moreover, it aims to foster greater involvement from the private sector in research and development. Another critical agenda of the NRF is to involve more colleges and universities in research activities, given that currently, less than 1% of nearly 40,000 higher learning institutions in India participate in research.
The NRF intends to promote research in areas beyond natural sciences, including humanities, social sciences, and art. This inter-disciplinary approach aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills. It also plans to increase funding for scientific research in India, both from governmental and private sources.
Initiatives to Foster Research and Development in India
Several initiatives have been adopted to bolster research and development in the country, which include Sign Language AstroLab, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-National Physical Laboratory, One Week – One Lab initiative, Science and Heritage Research Initiative, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations, and Mission on Advanced and High-Impact Research.
The Way Forward
The establishment of NRF promises great potential to transform the landscape of scientific research in India. By broadening research participation across different fields, focusing on national priorities, and boosting funding, the NRF can address critical challenges, enhance research output, and foster innovation. The effective implementation of NRF signifies an imminent improvement in India’s scientific research ecosystem, leading to transformative outcomes for the nation.
