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Context: The cancellation of the SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institutes) program under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has sparked concerns among researchers and academics, especially regarding the implications it might have on research funding and the autonomy of educational institutions.

Key Highlights

SATHI Program Cancellation

• The Department of Science and Technology (DST) cancelled the call for proposals under the SATHI program.
• SATHI (Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institutes) was launched in 2020 to establish centres with advanced analytical instruments shared among institutions.

Purpose of SATHI

• SATHI aimed to provide access to sophisticated research tools for institutions that lacked such resources.
• It operated on a consortium model with a lead organization hosting equipment and partner institutions benefiting.

Impact on Educational Institutions

• Educational institutions, especially in Kerala, formed consortiums and submitted project proposals under SATHI.
• The cancellation raised concerns about shrinking funding sources for vital research and development equipment.

Speculation about NRF Introduction

• Some in the academic community suspect the SATHI cancellation is a precursor to introducing the National Research Foundation (NRF).
• The NRF is expected to heavily rely on private sector investments for research funding.

NRF Bill and Funding Allocation

• The Anusandhan NRF Bill, 2023, recently passed in Parliament, envisions a centralized body for research funding.
• The NRF anticipates an allocation of ₹50,000 crores over the next five years, with nearly ₹36,000 crores from the private sector.

Concerns and Fear of Market Influence

• Researchers fear that private sector involvement in funding could lead to market forces dictating research priorities.
• There's concern that this might compromise the autonomy of educational institutions, influencing their research agendas.

Uncertainty and Academic Apprehension

• The cancellation of the SATHI program, coupled with the NRF's introduction, has created uncertainty about the future of research funding.
• Academics worry about potential shifts in focus, with concerns about a reduced emphasis on fundamental research in favour of commercially viable projects.

Broader Implications

• The academic community's apprehension is not just about the cancellation of one program but concerns the broader implications for research priorities and the nature of scientific inquiry in the country.

Conclusion

• The cancellation of the SATHI programme has sparked worries among researchers, with many speculating that it could be linked to the impending introduction of the National Research Foundation and the potential implications of increased private sector involvement in funding research. The situation has created uncertainty about the future direction of research funding and the autonomy of educational institutions in setting research priorities.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. How can India enhance and promote scientific research in education to foster innovation and technological advancements, ensuring a robust foundation for the country's academic and economic growth?