Central Govt to boost research with new PAIR initiative

new delhi: the central government is taking steps to enhance research capabilities in higher education institutions through the launch of the 'partnership for accelerated innovation and research' (pair) program.professor abhay karandikar, secretary of the department of science and technology, announced the launch of the pair program during a recent meeting at the anusandhan national research foundation (anrf) in new delhi. the initiative aims to strengthen research in the country's higher education institutions, a critical move as currently, less than one percent of the nation's 40,000 institutions actively participate in research activities.the newly established anrf is focused on fostering a culture of research and innovation across india. its efforts span a broad range of fields, including natural sciences, engineering, technology, environmental and earth sciences, and health. through anrf and programs like pair, the government seeks to elevate the role of research in national development, nurturing future innovation and discovery.