Enhancing India’s Research Landscape: The PAIR Program
The Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) Program was launched in New Delhi today. This initiative, organized by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), aims to transform the research ecosystem in India. Faculty members from various institutions across the country gathered at Bharat Mandapam to discuss the program’s objectives and potential impact. The PAIR program is rooted in the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks to address disparities in research infrastructure and capabilities among Indian institutions.
A Vision for Collaborative Research
The PAIR program aims to foster collaboration among institutions to enhance research capabilities. Prof. A K Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, emphasized the program’s potential to revolutionize India’s research landscape. He stated that the initiative would pair top-tier institutions with those that have untapped potential. This mentorship will not only improve facilities and resources but also benefit the scientific community at large. By acting as catalysts for research excellence, these leading institutions will guide students and researchers in their endeavors.
The program’s design encourages institutions to work together, sharing knowledge and resources. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the existing disparities in research capabilities. By creating a network of partnerships, the PAIR program aims to elevate the overall research standards across the country. The focus on mentorship will ensure that emerging institutions receive the guidance they need to thrive in a competitive research environment.
Building a Diverse Research Ecosystem
Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and CEO of ANRF, highlighted the importance of upgrading institutions to fulfill the goals of the NEP 2020. He noted that well-established institutions would provide mentorship to elevate research standards across the board. The first phase of the PAIR program will focus on building regional diversity by targeting select universities and institutions.
As the program progresses, the scope will expand through subsequent calls for participation. The goal is to enhance the research ecosystem within Indian universities. Participants are encouraged to collaborate under the Hub and Spoke model, which fosters partnerships and innovation. This model allows for a structured approach to research development, ensuring that all institutions benefit from the shared expertise and resources available within the network.
The Role of Research and Development in National Progress
Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Education, underscored the critical role of research and development (R&D) in driving national progress. He stressed the need to enhance institutional capacity for R&D and to create a diverse ecosystem of research-oriented institutions. This diversity is essential for fostering innovation and addressing the challenges faced by the country.
The stakeholder meeting brought together around 200 participants, including directors, deans, and vice chancellors from various universities and research institutions. This gathering provided a platform for addressing queries and clarifying doubts about the PAIR program. The discussions paved the way for strong proposals, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to engage with the program effectively.
A Mentorship-Driven Framework for Research Growth
The PAIR program will facilitate systematic research growth through a mentorship-driven hub and spoke framework. In this model, established institutions (hubs) will guide emerging institutions (spokes) in their research activities. This guidance will include providing access to resources and expertise, thereby bridging the gap between institutions.
By nurturing a robust research ecosystem in India, the PAIR program aims to create a culture of collaboration and innovation. The mentorship-driven approach will empower emerging institutions to harness their potential and contribute meaningfully to the research landscape. As the program unfolds, it holds the promise of transforming India’s research capabilities and fostering a new generation of researchers and innovators.
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