Modi announces ₹1 lakh crore research funding at Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims + Mains·
R&D investment and the role of ANRF are key for GS3 Science & Technology and Economy questions.
Why in news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a ₹1 lakh crore research funding package during the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) to bolster India's R&D capabilities.
Background
The funding package includes ₹12,000 crore for market transitions and ₹24,000 crore in new commitments. The announcement also highlighted the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and the 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) reaching first criticality.
Facts for Prelims
- FactTotal research funding announced: ₹1 lakh crore
- FactFunding for market transitions: ₹12,000 crore
- FactNew research commitments: ₹24,000 crore
- S&TPrototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) capacity: 500 MW
- BodyAnusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is the body discussed for research promotion
Prelims practice question
With reference to the research funding and infrastructure announced at the ESTIC, consider the following statements:
- The total research funding package announced is ₹1 lakh crore.
- The funding for market transitions is set at ₹12,000 crore.
- The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) has a capacity of 1000 MW.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)2 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The note states the PFBR capacity is 500 MW.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how increased public funding in R&D and the role of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation can accelerate India's transition toward a knowledge-based economy.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Institutional synergy: Coordinating ANRF with private sector to bridge the 'lab-to-market' transition gap
- Nuclear energy security: Scaling PFBR technology to meet growing industrial energy demands
- Ethical governance: Balancing rapid AI deployment with established ethical frameworks
Keywords: Research and Development · Knowledge Economy · Fast Breeder Reactor · Innovation Ecosystem · Public Investment
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.