Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act, 2023

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act, 2023 supersedes the Science and Engineering Research Board Act, 2008, leading to the dissolution of the Science and Engineering Research Board established under it. The Act establishes the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) as the new framework.

Functions of NRF: NRF is set to be the premier body in India, responsible for providing strategic guidance for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship across several fields:

Natural sciences, including mathematics
Engineering and technology
Environmental and earth sciences
Health and agriculture
Scientific and technological aspects of humanities and social sciences
Key Functions of NRF:

1. Developing short-term, medium-term, and long-term roadmaps and formulating R&D programs.
2. Supporting and funding the expansion of R&D and related infrastructure in educational and research institutions.
3. Providing grants for research proposals.
4. Aiding in the transformation of research into capital-intensive technology.
5. Promoting international collaboration.
6. Encouraging private and public sector investments in the Foundation.
7. Conducting annual surveys of scientific research, outcomes, and expenditure.
Funding for NRF: The Foundation’s financial sources will include:
Central government grants and loans.
Donations.
Income from investment of received funds.
All amounts from the Fund for Science and Engineering Research established under the 2008 Act.
Funds Constituted by NRF:

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Fund for operational expenses.
The Innovation Fund for supporting exceptional creativity.
The Science and Engineering Research Fund for continuing projects from the 2008 Act.
Special purpose funds for specific projects or research areas.

The utilization of these funds will be governed by rules prescribed by the central government, and the Foundation’s accounts will be audited annually by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
Governing Board:

The NRF will be overseen by a Governing Board led by the Prime Minister of India, ensuring high-level direction and oversight.

SRIRAM’s