GS Paper 3
Syllabus: Science and Technology
Source: TH
Context: The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill has been introduced in the Lok Sabha. It will establish NRF and repeal the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) – subsuming it into the NRF.
What is NRF?
The National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill is a proposed legislation aimed at establishing the NRF as an apex body to provide strategic direction for scientific research in India, following the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
Aim: It seeks to allocate ₹50,000 crore over five years for promoting research and innovation across various levels of research institutions, colleges, and universities in the country.
More about NRF:
Importance of the Bill:
- Stimulate increased industry investment in research and development (R&D).
- Foster partnerships between industry, academia, and government divisions.
- Advocate research across natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and the arts to nurture creativity.
Issues with the Bill:
| Issues | Examples |
| Corporate Influence | Private sector funding (70% allocation) may prioritize profit-driven research, hindering societal benefit. |
| Centralized Decision-Making | Lack of diverse and pluralistic research approaches due to centralization. |
| Neglecting State Participation | The exclusion of state higher education councils and state governments may undermine cooperative federalism. |
| Limited Focus on Public Good | NRF’s heavy reliance on corporate funding may neglect research for public welfare. |
| Inadequate Research Evaluation | Closed peer reviews without broader public engagement may hinder effective knowledge utilization. |
| Disconnect from Government Goals | Lack of alignment with the government’s 2% GDP target for R&D, hindering national development. |
| Uncertain Funding Mechanism | The private sector’s notional commitment to funding lacks transparency and enforceability. |
Conclusion:
For the NRF to achieve its intended impact, a balanced approach is necessary. While private sector involvement is crucial, it should be complemented by increased public investment in research and development.
About SERB
- It is a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) established in 2009 (by the SERB Act, 2008).
- It was set up for promoting basic research in science and engineering and to provide financial assistanceto scientists, academic institutions, R&D laboratories, S&T start-ups, etc.
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Mains Links:
Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as our business operations, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment. (UPSC 2014)
