National Research Foundation roles – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, D and F correctly portray the NRF. A is true because NRF is designed as a competitive grant agency across disciplines. B is true as a key goal is to broaden research activity beyond a handful of institutions. D is true since NRF aims to strengthen linkages among universities, industry and government. F is true because transparent, peer-reviewed processes are critical for credibility. C is false because funding is not meant to be restricted only to central technical institutions, and E is false because NRF intends to support both basic and applied research.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it omits F and therefore fails to mention the importance of transparent selection and monitoring in NRF operations.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it introduces E, which wrongly claims that basic research is discouraged, contradicting the broad mandate of NRF.

Option C:
Option C is correct as it brings together A, B, D and F, the four statements that reflect NRF’s funding scope, capacity-building role, collaborative orientation and transparent processes, while excluding C and E, which excessively restrict or distort its mandate.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it includes C, which limits funding to centrally funded technical institutions, and therefore misrepresents the inclusive vision of NRF.