Budget leaves Indian researchers searching for funding following cuts to universities

India’s latest budget, the first of Narendra Modi’s third term, has raised eyebrows for its long-term direction. There not been the substantial increase in funding for science and technology hoped for, meaning that investment in the sector remains largely flat at 0.64% of GDP despite government claims of turning India into a science powerhouse.

Last February, the government announced it was setting up of Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to give impetus to R&D efforts – something that was broadly welcomed. It was announced that INR500 billion (£4.7 billion) would be allocated over five years for the venture. Furthermore, the government announced that 72% of the funding for ANRF would come from private sources.