The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) offers the Advanced Research Grant (ARG) program to support high-impact research across various scientific disciplines. This initiative aims to foster a robust research culture in India by providing financial assistance to researchers in academic institutions, national laboratories, and other recognized research organizations.

Introduction to the ARG Program

The Advanced Research Grant (ARG) program is a competitive funding opportunity designed to support researchers and scientists in India. It is open to those affiliated with academic institutions, National Research Laboratories, and DSIR-SIRO recognized research organizations eligible for Government of India grants-in-aid.

The program focuses on funding high-impact fundamental or basic research (Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 1-3) and applied research (TRL 1 – 6) in frontier areas of science and technology. The ARG program encourages participation from emerging, mid-career, as well as established researchers, offering funding opportunities for individual and collaborative projects.

Proposals should demonstrate innovative approaches that advance knowledge and have the potential for transformative impact. The ARG Program particularly encourages Collaborative Research and Interdisciplinary Research.

Objectives and Scope

The primary objective of the ARG Program is to provide research support to researchers in recognized institutions across India. It aims to foster original, novel, and scientifically ambitious research that significantly advances knowledge in its respective field.

The program supports research and development in frontier areas of natural sciences, engineering & technology, environmental sciences, earth & atmospheric sciences, and scientific & technological interfaces of humanities & social sciences. It is aligned with the Viksit Bharat initiative of the Government of India.

Another key objective is to promote collaboration among researchers, leading to high-impact interdisciplinary projects that address complex scientific and societal challenges. The program also encourages collaboration between researchers in academic institutions/ National Research Laboratories/ other research organisations and industry partners and researchers.

Eligibility Criteria

Specific eligibility criteria will be detailed in the program guidelines. However, generally, the program is open to researchers affiliated with:

• Recognized academic institutions

• National Research Laboratories

• Other DSIR-SIRO recognized research organizations eligible to receive grants-in-aid from the Government of India

The program encourages participation from emerging, mid-career, as well as established researchers.

Ensure to check the official guidelines for detailed eligibility requirements before applying.

Nature and Duration of Support

The ARG program provides financial assistance to support research projects. The specific amount and duration of the grant will vary depending on the scope and nature of the proposed research.

The grant can be used to cover various research-related expenses, including personnel costs, equipment, consumables, and travel. The support is intended to facilitate the successful completion of the proposed research project.

Details regarding the specific financial support and duration will be outlined in the program guidelines. Applicants should carefully review these guidelines to understand the full scope of support available.

Application, Evaluation, and Selection

The application process typically involves submitting a detailed research proposal outlining the project's objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Proposals will be evaluated based on their scientific merit, potential impact, and alignment with the program's objectives.

The evaluation process may involve peer review by experts in the relevant field. Selected proposals will be awarded grants based on the recommendations of the review panel.

Applicants should carefully follow the instructions provided in the program guidelines when preparing their applications. The guidelines will provide details on the application format, required documents, and submission deadlines.