The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has recently introduced the J. C. Bose Grant (JBG) to honour the remarkable contributions of senior Indian scientists and engineers. This initiative provides extra-mural funding to support advanced scientific and technological research, aligning with ANRF’s broader mission under the National Education Policy (NEP) to enhance India’s research landscape.
Objectives of the J. C. Bose Grant
The J. C. Bose Grant seeks to recognize outstanding senior-level researchers who have demonstrated excellence through their work. Eligible candidates include those with notable publications, successful research outcomes, patents, technology transfers, and prestigious awards. The grant encompasses various domains, including science, technology, agriculture, medicine, and the humanities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be active senior scientists or researchers holding at least a Professor-level position or an equivalent role at an Indian institution or university. A proven track record of excellence in research is a key criterion for eligibility.
Funding Details
The J. C. Bose Grant offers substantial financial support to researchers:
- ₹25 lakhs per annum in research funding over five years.
- An additional ₹1 lakh per annum allocated to the implementing institution for overhead expenses.
This financial backing is designed to facilitate high-impact research projects and technological advancements.
Continuity of Funding
If the Principal Investigator (PI) retires during the grant period, funding can continue provided the host institution agrees to accommodate the PI. The grant is available until the age of 68, ensuring sustained contributions from senior scientists.
Selection Process
Recipients of the J. C. Bose Grant are selected annually through a Search-cum-Selection Committee, which follows stringent guidelines to identify deserving researchers for funding.
Historical Context
The J. C. Bose Grant is an evolved version of the J. C. Bose Fellowship, previously awarded by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB). The transition from a fellowship to a grant underscores the government’s commitment to expanding research funding and support for senior scientists in India.
Importance of Research Funding
Investment in research funding drives scientific innovation and technological advancements. The J. C. Bose Grant fosters a culture of cutting-edge research and development, ultimately contributing to national and global scientific progress.
Key Facts About ANRF
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is a statutory body established under the ANRF Act, 2023. Its key functions include:
- Supporting and guiding research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in diverse fields such as science, engineering, technology, health, environment, and agriculture.
- Promoting research and development in universities, colleges, research institutions, and laboratories across India.
- Serving as the apex body for shaping India’s scientific research landscape, in alignment with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP).
The J. C. Bose Grant marks a significant step in India’s research journey, offering vital support to senior scientists and reinforcing the country’s position as a hub for scientific excellence and innovation.