Budget 2019: Modi Government To Set Up National Research Foundation To Fund, Coordinate And Promote Research

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is delivering her first budget speech, has proposed the setting up of a National Research Foundation in the country to fund, coordinate and promote research.

“It proposes better governance systems and focus on research & innovation. Propose to set up a new national research foundation. Funds available in all ministries will be integrated under NRF,” the finance minister said.

The poor quality of research in India has been a major concern. Last month, a panel of the University Grants Commissions had said that research material published in “predatory” journals and presentations in conferences organised by their publishers should not be used for granting academic credit.

The panel has recommended a new board for social sciences research and the appointment a dean for research and development in every university.