The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted its approval for the introduction of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023, in the Parliament.
This landmark decision aims to establish the NRF, an apex body that will play a pivotal role in nurturing and promoting research and development (R&D) activities across various institutions in India, while fostering a culture of innovation.
Upon receiving approval from Parliament, the NRF Bill will establish the National Research Foundation as a prominent institution dedicated to providing strategic direction for scientific research in the country.
This move aligns with the recommendations set forth in the National Education Policy (NEP). The estimated cost for establishing and operating the NRF over a five-year period, from 2023 to 2028, is approximately Rs. 50,000 crore.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will serve as the administrative department for the National Research Foundation. The foundation will be governed by a distinguished Governing Board consisting of eminent researchers and professionals from diverse disciplines.
The Prime Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and the Union Minister of Education will act as ex-officio Vice-Presidents. The Executive Council, chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, will oversee the functioning of the NRF.
The National Research Foundation will play a crucial role in fostering collaborations among academia, industry, government departments, and research institutions. It will establish an interface mechanism to actively encourage participation and contributions from industries, state governments, scientific ministries, and line ministries.
Furthermore, the foundation will focus on creating a comprehensive policy framework and regulatory processes to promote collaboration and enhance industry spending on research and development (R&D) initiatives.
Integration of Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)
As part of the NRF's establishment, the NRF Bill will also lead to the repeal of the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), which was established in 2008 through an act of Parliament. The functions of SERB will be subsumed into the National Research Foundation, expanding its mandate to cover activities beyond those previously performed by SERB.
The establishment of the National Research Foundation (NRF) brings several potential benefits to India's research ecosystem.
Under current laws, private research organizations face challenges when it comes to contributing to funding bodies like the NRF. However, the NRF aims to ensure equitable participation and funding for scientific research, with a particular focus on increasing private sector involvement. Once operational, the NRF expects to attract close to ₹36,000 crore in private sector investments into research and development.
Currently, renowned institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) receive the majority of research funding, while state universities receive comparatively limited support, approximately 10% of the research funds. The establishment of the NRF aims to rectify this disparity by increasing funding to state universities and colleges, providing them with greater opportunities for research and development initiatives.
Improved coordination and collaboration between academia, industry, and government
Increased focus on applied research and innovation
Enhanced internationalization of India's research ecosystem
Conclusion
The Union Cabinet's approval of the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023 signifies a significant step towards fostering a robust research ecosystem in India.
The NRF's establishment will strengthen research and development efforts, encourage collaboration among various stakeholders, attract private investment, and ensure equitable distribution of research funding across institutions, including state universities and colleges.