Context: The newly operationalised Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has launched two initiatives: the Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG) and the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas – Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission.

About Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (PMECRG)

• Origin: Launched under ANRF to support early career researchers and boost scientific research.

• Aim: To foster high-quality innovative research, drive technological progress, and contribute to India’s global leadership in science and technology.

• Significance: Foster high quality innovative research; Enable researchers to expand knowledge boundaries and drive technological progress. 

• Features:

• Flexible budget for ease of research.

• Focus on nurturing young researchers.

• Encourages groundbreaking discoveries and research excellence.

• Positions India as a leader in Science & Technology by supporting early career researchers.

About Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas – Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV) Mission:

• Origin: Part of ANRF’s MAHA scheme designed to address critical scientific challenges and align with national priorities like Atmanirbhar Bharat.

• Aim: To develop domestic EV technologies, reduce import dependency, and position India as a global hub for EV component development.

• Significance: 

• Position India as a hub for EV component development, driving global competitiveness and innovation. 

• By accelerating the shift towards electric mobility, it will contribute to a greener and sustainable future.

• Features:

• Focus on three critical verticals: EV Batteries and Cells, Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD), and EV Charging Infrastructure.

• Encourages multi-institutional collaboration.

• Supports India’s transition to electric mobility and fosters domestic innovation in the EV sector.

• Enhances competitiveness and aligns with India’s goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

About Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

• Origin: Operationalised in 2024, chaired by the Prime Minister during its first Governing Board meeting.

• Ministry: Ministry of Science & Technology.

• Aim: To bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications, aligning R&D with national priorities.

Function

• Promotes inclusive growth, scientific advances, and innovation.

• Facilitates industry-aligned translational research.

• Supports capacity building and global positioning of India in key sectors.