Science and Technology Policy — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Science and Technology Policy.

National Research Foundation (NRF) Begins Operations, Aims to Transform India's Research Landscape

2025-01-10

Following the passage of the NRF Bill in 2023, the National Research Foundation is expected to be fully operational, initiating its first major funding calls and establishing its governance structure. This marks a pivotal moment in India's S&T policy, as NRF aims to streamline research funding, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and elevate the quality of research across universities, especially state-funded institutions. Its success will be crucial in addressing the long-standing issue of fragmented research and inadequate funding for basic sciences, thereby strengthening India's overall innovation ecosystem and human resource development in S&T. The initial projects funded by NRF will set precedents for future research directions.

UPSC Angle: Evaluate the potential impact of the National Research Foundation (NRF) on India's research ecosystem and higher education. Discuss how NRF addresses existing gaps in research funding and promotion. Analyze the role of public-private partnerships in NRF's funding model. (GS-II: Education, Governance; GS-III: S&T, Economy)

Background (2024)

Earlier events that provide context for this topic.

India's Semiconductor Mission Attracts Major Global Players, Boosts Domestic Manufacturing

2024-03-15

The recent announcements of significant investments by global semiconductor giants in setting up fabrication and ATMP units in India, facilitated by the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, underscore the success of India's targeted S&T policy. This move is critical for national security, economic resilience, and achieving self-reliance in a strategically vital sector. It demonstrates the government's proactive approach to attracting high-tech manufacturing and building a robust domestic ecosystem, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. The policy's incentives are proving effective in de-risking investments for companies, positioning India as a credible player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

UPSC Angle: Examine the economic and strategic implications of India's semiconductor policy. Discuss its role in achieving technological sovereignty and fostering high-tech manufacturing. Analyze the challenges and opportunities for India in becoming a global semiconductor hub. (GS-III: Economy, S&T, Security)