NEW DELHI: Seeking to establish India as a bio-manufacturing hub and creating a strong research ecosystem in the country, the Centre on Monday announced multiple initiatives including setting up 10 biotech URJIT (University Research Joint Industry Translational) clusters to synergize resources between research labs and industries, forming umbrella structures in nine cities for better coordination among R&D institutions and focusing on identified national priority thrust areas under National Research Foundation (NRF).
The NRF, which got a budget allocation of Rs 50,000 crore for five years, will be governed by a Board appointed by the Prime Minister, and consist of accomplished and eminent researchers and professionals. It will build on existing national strengths in research and innovation, and fill gaps in the current research and education ecosystem.