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In a significant move aimed at transforming research and development in India, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the establishment of the National Research Foundation (Anusadhan NRF). This new initiative is expected to create a robust framework for integrating public and private sectors, including industry and academia, and drive cutting-edge innovations.
Dr. Singh’s announcement came during a meeting with Dr. Sethuraman Panchnathan, Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation, who is currently visiting India. The Minister, who also holds several key portfolios including Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and the Department of Space, highlighted the necessity for an enabling environment to foster scientific and technological development in the country. According to Dr. Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has been pivotal in creating such an environment, which has significantly advanced India’s position in the global scientific community.
“There is no dearth of scientific acumen in India, but what lacked was an enabling milieu to support the development of science and technology and motivate people in research and development,” said Dr. Singh. “The leadership and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi provided that enabling milieu and brought revolutionary change in the scenario, thus driving India to the forefront.”
The establishment of the Anusadhan NRF is part of the government’s broader efforts to scale up research and development. Dr. Singh pointed out recent policy changes, such as the National Geospatial policy and the relaxation of drone regulations, which are designed to encourage private sector participation. These steps are aimed at fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and facilitating multinational partnerships to develop world-class technological innovations.
Dr. Singh also highlighted the government’s initiatives to open the space sector to private players, which has led to a rise in space startups contributing significantly to innovation. “India is on par with the rest of the world in next-generation technologies such as AI/ML and quantum technologies,” he added.
The Minister emphasized that the current scale and scope of research in India, driven by PM Modi’s vision, will propel the country from being the 5th largest economy to the 4th, and eventually the 3rd largest in the world. He also discussed various areas for potential scientific collaboration with Dr. Panchnathan.
Dr. Panchnathan expressed confidence in India’s efforts to bring about transformational changes in research and development. He congratulated Dr. Singh for his consistent support for international collaboration in the scientific sector and wished India success in its future endeavors.
The National Research Foundation is poised to be a game-changer for India, acting as a bridge between different sectors and harnessing the collective strengths of the public and private domains. This initiative marks a significant step forward in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in scientific research and technological innovation.
