New Delhi (Agency): The Rajya Sabha, one of India’s parliamentary houses, approved the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill 2023 on Wednesday. This bill sets the foundation for a national agency to fund research across universities in India. Earlier, the Lok Sabha, another parliamentary house, had passed the bill on Monday.
The bill was quickly approved by the Rajya Sabha in only 40 minutes. However, during the debate, many opposition members were not present as they had earlier left the House. Only six members took part in the discussion about the bill.
Jitendra Singh, the Science and Technology Minister, shared his views during the debate. He called the event “history in the making.” Singh expressed his hope for more feedback from the opposition, who were absent during the discussion. He believes this bill will produce long-term benefits.
Several members from different parties shared their thoughts on the bill. Sujit Kumar of the BJD mentioned that the NRF 2023 bill would create significant positive changes in the country’s innovation field. He emphasized its potential to connect universities, higher education institutions, and the private sector. Another member, Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla of the YSRCP, labeled the bill as “transformative.” He said, “The establishment of NRF is going to give a new direction to reshape our nation’s research innovation and entrepreneurial landscape.”
The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had first introduced the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill in June 2023. With the approval in Parliament, the plan is now set to create the NRF. This body will lead, nurture, and boost Research and Development (R&D) efforts across the nation. It aims to encourage research and innovation in India’s colleges, universities, and R&D labs.
The approved bill has allocated a budget of Rs 50,000 crore for the NRF, spread over five years from 2023 to 2028. This agency will follow the guidance of the National Education Policy (NEP).
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) will oversee NRF’s administrative tasks. The NRF’s governing board will consist of highly regarded researchers and professionals from various fields. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the official head of this board, while the Union Minister of Science & Technology and the Union Minister of Education will serve as the vice-heads. The Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India will lead the NRF’s Executive Council.
Lastly, the NRF plans to work closely with industries, educational institutions, and government departments. It aims to create a strong policy framework and encourages more R&D investments from the industry.