PARTNERSHIPS FOR ACCELERATED INNOVATION AND RESEARCH (PAIR)

TAG: GS-3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT

CONTEXT: The Centre recently launched an initiative called Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) to support research in universities, especially central and state public universities.

EXPLANATION:

About the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR):

• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has launched the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) Program, which enhances research capabilities in Indian universities.
• The programme was introduced during the first meeting of the Governing Board on September 10, 2024. The Prime Minister chaired this meeting, reinforcing the government’s commitment to quality higher education.
• Phase I Hubs will comprise high NIRF-ranked institutions that will guide emerging institutions (spokes) in research activities, providing access to their resources and expertise.
• Central and State Public Universities and select NITs and IIITs (to be expanded later).
• The PAIR Programme aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• It seeks to encourage research excellence in universities, particularly those with limited capabilities.
• PAIR aims to create a mentorship environment to strengthen research across the country.
• This mentorship-driven approach will help bridge the research gap in India.

What is ANRF?

• ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation) is set to seed, grow and foster a culture of research and innovation throughout the country, with a focus on diverse fields, including natural sciences, engineering, technology, environmental and earth sciences and health.

• ANRF (established by the ANRF 2023 Act) in addition to other initiatives like SERB-SURE, IMPRINT, Atal Innovation Mission, etc. are expected to improve the quality of research ecosystem in India.

• The ANRF Translational Research and Innovation (ATRI) initiative aims to foster collaboration between academia and industry to accelerate technological innovation.
• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation is also focused on streamlining the research process for Indian scientists.

Goal of the PAIR programme:

• The PAIR initiative uses a hub-and-spoke model, where hubs are top-tier institutions and spokes are emerging universities that hubs will mentor in research activities.
• This model provides access to resources and expertise, facilitating systematic research growth. The collaboration aims to nurture a robust research ecosystem across the country.
• In the first phase, hub institutions will include those ranked in the top 25 of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). Institutions of National Importance within the top 50 NIRF will also be included. Spoke institutions will consist of Central and State Public Universities, along with select NITs and IIITs. Future phases may expand eligibility to other universities.
• Each PAIR network comprises one hub and up to seven spokes. Only one proposal per hub is allowed. Multi-departmental faculty teams from spoke institutions must be involved in each proposal. This structure encourages regional diversity among participants.

Significance:

• Skill Development; Provides students and researchers with practical exposure to industry workflows, enhancing their employability.
  • Promotes a culture of problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration among young professionals.
  • Drives progress in high-impact areas like renewable energy, healthcare, artificial intelligence, and materials science.
• Bridging Academia and Industry: Encourages partnerships between research institutions and industries to apply academic knowledge to real-world problems.
  • Aligns academic research objectives with industrial needs, fostering innovation that benefits society and the economy.
• Enhancing Innovation: Facilitates the development of cutting-edge technologies and solutions by leveraging expertise from both sectors.
• Boosting Economic Growth: Contributes to the commercialization of research, turning ideas into marketable products and services.
  • Supports startups and entrepreneurial ventures that can generate employment and drive regional and national economic development.
• Addressing National Priorities: Focuses on solving challenges in sectors of strategic importance, such as energy security, sustainable agriculture, and healthcare innovations.
  • Aligns research with government policies and global initiatives like Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Strengthening Global Competitiveness: Enables countries to remain competitive in global markets by supporting the development of innovative technologies and industries. Positions academia and industries as international leaders in research and development.

Way Forward:

• Governments, industries, and academic institutions must enhance funding, improve frameworks for collaboration, and establish clear policies for intellectual property sharing.
• Promoting international collaborations to leverage global expertise and resources.

Source:

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/govts-pair-programme-to-boost-research-innovation-in-higher-education/