PM Sets In Motion New Research Foundation: ANRF Poised To Bridge Long-Standing Divide Between Academia And Industry

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing the first meeting of the governing board of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) on Tuesday (10 September).

The research foundation, established under the ANRF Act of 2023, seeks to address one of India’s most persistent research challenges: the “missing middle”.

Although state-run universities and colleges are home to 95 per cent of the students, their research capabilities often fall short.

The ANRF aims to close this gap, drawing inspiration from the United States' (US) National Science Foundation (NSF).

In the US model, after academic researchers have established a concept, the industry steps in to commercialise it. The ANRF wants to replicate this collaboration between Indian academia and industry, where research translates into real-world impact.

The ANRF will focus on improving research infrastructure in state and central universities, streamlining fund disbursement, and eliminating bureaucratic delays.

The foundation's Rs 50,000 crore corpus over five years (2023-2028) is designed to support this shift, with 72 per cent of it expected to come from non-governmental sources like industry and philanthropists.

By bringing private sector and philanthropic support into the fold, the ANRF hopes to overcome funding bottlenecks, ensuring that research aligns with market needs and isn’t held back by red tape.

Moreover, the ANRF stands out for its wider focus on research, extending beyond science and engineering to include fields like information technology, liberal arts, social sciences, and the humanities, ensuring a more inclusive approach to research and development.

With this expansive view and the right support, the ANRF could serve as India’s catalyst for becoming a knowledge-driven economy, propelling the nation's technological and manufacturing ambitions.

However, significant challenges lie ahead. The foundation’s success will largely hinge on how effectively it navigates the complexities of research funding and implementation. If it can effectively use the Rs 2,000 crore budgeted for this year and secure the projected 72 per cent of external funding — Rs 36,000 crore — it will signal a strong start towards reshaping India’s research ecosystem.

ANRF 101

The ANRF succeeded the Science and Engineering Research Board and officially began its journey in February 2024. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, is the interim chief executive officer of the body.

In June, the government announced the ANRF's governing board and executive council. The 15-member board, comprising eminent researchers and professionals across disciplines, is led by the Prime Minister as ex-officio president, with the ministers of science and technology and education serving as vice presidents.

Among the board’s distinguished members are Princeton University professor Manjul Bhargav, Romesh Wadhwani, chairman of Symphony Technology Group, California, Indian Council for Historical Research chair Raghuvendra Tanwar, and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research director Jayaram Chengalur.

The executive council, which governs the foundation’s functioning, is chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to the government of India.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the launch of the ANRF on 23 July. With its first board meeting underway, the ANRF now appears ready to implement its plans.