Lok Sabha passes Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023

The Lok Sabha on Monday (07 August 2023) passed the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023. The Bill seeks to establish the Anusandhan National Research Foundation to provide high level strategic direction for research, innovation and entrepreneurship in the fields of natural sciences including mathematical sciences, engineering and technology, environmental and earth sciences. The Bill repeals the Science and Engineering Research Board Act, 2008 and dissolves the Science and Engineering Research Board set up under it. Speaking on the Bill, Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said, several steps have been taken by the government in the last nine years to strengthen the ecosystem for promotion of science and innovation in the country. He said, decision has been taken to open up the space sector for the private sector. He said, more than 150 startups are working in this sector. The Minister said, the National Quantum Mission has been launched in the country. Dr Singh said this legislation will generate competition within the state universities. He added that India has reached at 42 position in the global innovation index.

Earlier, initiating the discussion, Jagdambika Pal of BJP said, this legislation will strengthen the research ecosystem in the country. He said, the objective of the Bill is to establish the Anusandhan National Research Foundation. Talari Rangaiah of YSR Congress termed this bill a transformative and revolutionary saying that this will facilitate the scientific development and research in the country. Malook Nagar of BSP and others also spoke on the Bill. The Bill was passed with brief discussion amid opposition walk out from the House.