PM Modi Leads First ANRF Governing Board Meeting to Revolutionize Indian Research Landscape

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the inaugural meeting of the Governing Board of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). Key discussions focused on transforming India’s research and development ecosystem, removing obstacles, promoting localized solutions, and launching transformative programs. The meeting emphasized the alignment of R&D with national priorities and the holistic integration of industry and academia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the first meeting of the Governing Board of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) at his residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg on Tuesday. Discussions focused on India's science and technology landscape and the redesign of research and development programs, as per a press release from the Prime Minister's Office.

PM Modi highlighted the significance of this inaugural session and emphasized the need to identify and dismantle obstacles hindering the research ecosystem in India. He stressed the importance of setting ambitious targets, localizing solutions to global problems, and conducting groundbreaking research.

During the meeting, Modi proposed upgrading and standardizing institutions and compiling a list of domain experts. He also suggested creating a dashboard to track R&D activities nationwide. Scientific monitoring of resource utilization for research and innovation was also stressed. The meeting addressed the potential of Atal Tinkering Labs, research in climate change solutions, battery components for EVs, and more. The Governing Board decided to adopt a mentorship model pairing emerging research universities with top-tier institutions.

Key strategic interventions discussed included enhancing India's global position in critical sectors, aligning R&D with national priorities, promoting inclusive growth, and bridging the gap between academic research and industry applications. The ANRF plans to launch mission-driven programs in priority areas like EV mobility, advanced materials, smart infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture.

Promoting fundamental research and establishing Centres of Excellence for interdisciplinary studies in humanities and social sciences were also highlighted. Empowering researchers with flexible and transparent funding mechanisms was deemed essential. The ANRF strategies will align with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals and incorporate global best practices.

The meeting saw participation from Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, principal scientific advisers, and notable experts from India and abroad. ANRF aims to foster a robust culture of research and innovation across universities, research institutions, and industrial sectors in India. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)