ANRF Aims to Propel India as Global Research Hub, Says CEO

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is set to play a pivotal role in transforming India into a global leader in research and innovation. During a recent lecture at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of ANRF, outlined the organization’s vision and its commitment to creating an optimal research environment for scientists and academic professionals.

Dr. Kalyanaraman emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive atmosphere for researchers, stating that ANRF aims to facilitate “ease of doing science.” He noted that the organization is actively working on improving procurement models to streamline processes for researchers. This initiative is part of ANRF’s broader mission to establish a “Principal Investigator (PI)-friendly” research setting, allowing scholars to concentrate on significant scientific advancements rather than administrative hurdles.

Strategic Direction for Research and Innovation

Established by the Indian government in 2024 through the ANRF Act of 2023, the foundation has a projected budget of Rs 50,000 crores over five years. Its creation is aimed at enhancing India’s stature as a significant player in the global scientific community. Dr. Kalyanaraman highlighted the foundation’s objectives, which include fostering collaborations among industry, academia, government departments, and research institutions.

He encouraged researchers at IIT Delhi to present innovative ideas that could contribute to the development of “mission mode programmes.” These initiatives are intended to drive impactful research that aligns with national priorities and global scientific advancements.

In addition to outlining these objectives, Dr. Kalyanaraman visited the Central Research Facility (CRF) at IIT Delhi. His engagement with senior officials and young faculty members focused on discussing strategies to enhance the research landscape in India. This dialogue aimed to align the vision of ANRF with the aspirations of emerging scholars, ensuring that their insights are integrated into the foundation’s operational framework.

Building a Collaborative Ecosystem

Dr. Kalyanaraman’s discussions also included the need for enhanced participation from industries and state governments, positioning them as crucial partners in the research ecosystem. The ANRF intends to create mechanisms that facilitate active contributions from these sectors, thereby bolstering India’s innovation capacity.

As the foundation progresses, it is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of research and innovation in India. The collaborative efforts between ANRF and institutions like IIT Delhi aim not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to address pressing societal challenges through research-driven solutions.

By establishing itself as a catalyst for growth in the scientific community, the ANRF is poised to bolster India’s reputation on the world stage as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation.