ANUSANDHAN NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION SARAL TOOL
Why in News?
- On October 1, 2025, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) unveiled its SARAL tool.
- It is an AI-based system designed to simplify complex scientific research and make it accessible to the general public through videos, podcasts, posters, and presentations.
What is SARAL?
- SARAL stands for: Simplified and Automated Research Amplification and Learning
Key Features:
- AI-powered tool developed by ANRF.
- Converts complex scientific research papers into layperson-friendly formats like:
- Short videos
- Podcasts
- Infographics/posters
- Presentations
- Designed to democratize science by making research more understandable and shareable.
OBJECTIVES OF SARAL
- Bridge the gap between scientific communities and the general public.
- Promote science communication and public engagement.
- Encourage wider public and private sector investment in R&D by making research outputs more visible and intelligible.
ABOUT ANUSANDHAN NATIONAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION
- India’s premier science funding agency, established to overhaul India’s research ecosystem.
- Replaces the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB).
- Functions as a single-window clearance system for funding scientific research across academia and industry.
MAJOR FUNCTIONS
- Funding for deep science and engineering research.
- Promotion of deep-tech innovations and start-ups.
- Building an AI Science and Engineering Open India Stack to support:
- Drug and chemical discovery
- Aerospace and climate design
- Advanced materials
- Weather prediction.
FUNDING & BUDGET
- Part of the ₹1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme approved in July 2025.
- Offers low-interest, long-tenure loans to private companies to invest in core R&D.
- 70% of funding expected from private sector.
- Governing Council will guide fund allocation to priority sectors.
SIGNIFICANCE
1. Promotes Scientific Temper:
- Makes science more inclusive and accessible in line with Constitutional duties (Art 51A(h)).
2. Boosts Innovation Ecosystem:
- Encourages industry-academia collaboration.
- Supports India’s vision of becoming a global innovation hub.
3. Enables Evidence-Based Policy Making:
- Easier access to scientific insights can improve policy interventions in areas like climate, health, and technology.
4. Empowers Start-ups and MSMEs:
- Facilitates translation of research into products, aiding India’s Make in India and Digital India
Note: Connect with Vajirao & Reddy Institute to keep yourself updated with latest UPSC Current Affairs in English.
Note: We upload Current Affairs Except Sunday.