The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023
Recently, the Ministry of Science and Technology has introduced The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha.
The passage of this bill will pave the way for the setting up of the National Research Foundation (NRF).
The foundation will encourage research and development (R&D) in the country and promote a culture of research and innovation in universities, colleges, research institutes and R&D laboratories across the country.
A look at the key provisions of the bill:
- NRF will be set up as an apex body to provide strategic direction to scientific research in the country in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
- NRF will have a budget of Rs 50,000 crore for a period of five years (2023-28).
- The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will be the administrative department of the NRF.
- The NRF will be governed by a Governing Board. The Board will consist of eminent researchers and professionals from different subject areas.
- The Prime Minister will be the ex-officio chairman of this board. Union Science and Technology Minister and Union Education Minister will be its ex-officio vice-chairman.
- The bill would also repeal the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB). It will be merged with NRF.
- The functioning of the NRF shall be administered by an Executive Council. The Council will be headed by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
Significance of the Bill
- This will encourage spending by industry on R&D.
- Create collaboration between industry, academia and government departments.
- Will encourage research in natural sciences, humanities, social sciences and arts to develop creativity.
Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)
- It is a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology, established by the “Science and Engineering Research Board, 2008”.
- Its main function is to promote basic research in science and engineering. Also, financial assistance is to be provided for this work. A regular faculty/researcher in an academic/research institution can apply for the grant for research work.
- The Board also pays special attention to young scientists below the age of 35 years (which can also be relaxed). This board awards JC Bose National Fellowship and Ramanujan Fellowship.
Source – The Hindu
