The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), a Statutory body of the Government of India has launched a new programme called ‘Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR)’ with an aim to boost the research capability of institutions of Higher Learnings where research is at a nascent stage but which have the potential to perform well, in a mentorship mode by pairing them with well-established top-tier research institutions in a ‘Hub & Spoke’ framework. The objectives of the PAIR programme include; support internationally competitive research with substantial impact and outcome; foster successful and productive collaborative networks between diverse institutions; and propel the advancement of institutions by (i) upscaling and building advanced research infrastructure and capabilities, (ii) enhancing the quality of research and (iii) facilitating infusion of best practices and research culture.

Funding up to Rs. 1500 crore for five years has been earmarked for the PAIR programme in which each PAIR network selected will be provided with a funding upto a maximum of Rs 100 Crore with 30% of the funds for Hub and 70% for Spoke institutions. It is envisaged that the hubs in tandem with select spokes are expected to come up with competitive, impactful research proposals with potentially significant outcomes in the specified indicative themes. Vibrant PAIR networks, each consisting of a hub and several spoke institutions, involving faculties of multiple departments conducting outstanding research across several disciplines, in a collaborative enabling environment are likely to be beneficial in the innovation and research for our experts in different fields of knowledge and for the progress of the country.

This information was given by Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

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NKR/PSM

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