Centre Launches PAIR Initiative to Boost Research in Universities

On 16th November 2024, the Government of India launched the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) initiative to enhance research capabilities in central and state public universities.

Key Points

Objective and Framework: PAIR aims to support universities with nascent research potential by pairing them with top-tier institutions in a hub-and-spoke model. Substantial funding will be provided to foster collaborative research.
Phase-Wise Implementation: The first phase targets universities with proven potential through national rankings, while subsequent phases will expand to include more institutions.
Competitive Proposals: Hubs and spokes must present impactful, competitive research proposals addressing specific themes to be eligible for funding.
Collaborative Networks: PAIR networks will consist of hubs and multiple spoke institutions, fostering interdisciplinary research across diverse fields in an enabling environment.
ANRF Foundation: The initiative is underpinned by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), established under the ANRF Act 2023 to promote research culture as part of the National Education Policy 2020