New Integrity Rules for Anusandhan National Research Foundation Grant Applications

May 4, 2026, 04:11

Introduction

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has updated the rules for the Advanced Research Grant (ARG) program. Now, applicants must disclose any previous research publications that were retracted.

Main Body

These changes were caused by a large gap in global research data. According to India Research Watch (IRW), India produced only 5% of the world's research in 2025, yet it was responsible for 20% of the 4,000 global retractions. Consequently, the ANRF now requires lead researchers and co-investigators to list all retractions from the last five years. Furthermore, the foundation has emphasized a 'zero tolerance' policy toward plagiarism. This includes using third-party checks and requiring a formal promise that proposals were not written by AI. The ANRF asserted that it will use detection tools to find hidden AI use or missing retractions, which will then be reported to the Technical Program Committee. At the same time, the ANRF has simplified some administrative rules to make it easier for different institutions to work together. For example, national laboratories no longer need to provide 50% of the project costs. Additionally, the rule requiring a co-investigator from the lead researcher's own institution for projects over ₹1 crore has been removed. Now, projects can have up to five co-investigators from different institutions. These reforms aim to reduce bureaucracy while keeping strict quality control. Established in August 2023, the ANRF acts as the main body for coordinating high-impact research alongside other national science agencies.

Conclusion

In summary, the ANRF has introduced strict rules regarding academic honesty and AI use, while simultaneously removing financial and administrative obstacles for collaborating researchers.

Learning

🚀 The 'Logical Glue' (Connectors)

To move from A2 to B2, you must stop using only and, but, and because. The article uses Connectors—words that act like glue to link complex ideas. This is the secret to sounding professional and fluid.

🧩 Transitioning from Simple to Sophisticated

Look at how the text moves from one idea to another. Instead of simple sentences, it uses these 'B2-level' bridges:

Consequently $\rightarrow$ Use this instead of 'So'. It shows a direct result. (Example: India had many retractions $\rightarrow$ Consequently, rules became stricter.)
Furthermore $\rightarrow$ Use this instead of 'Also'. It adds a stronger, more formal piece of information. (Example: They check for retractions $\rightarrow$ Furthermore, they hate plagiarism.)
Simultaneously $\rightarrow$ Use this instead of 'At the same time'. It describes two things happening exactly together. (Example: They added strict rules while simultaneously removing old obstacles.)

⚠️ The 'Contrast' Shift

B2 students know how to pivot. The article uses "At the same time" to shift from Bad News (strict rules/punishments) to Good News (easier administration).

Pro Tip: When you want to change the mood of your paragraph from negative to positive, start your sentence with "At the same time..." or "Conversely..." to signal the change to your reader.

🛠️ Vocabulary Upgrade: The 'Power Verbs'

Instead of using basic verbs like say or do, the text uses Precise Action Verbs. Try swapping your A2 verbs for these:

A2 Verb (Basic)	B2 Verb (Precise)	Context in Article
Say	Assert	The ANRF asserted it will use tools.
Remove	Retract	Research that was retracted.
Lessen	Reduce	Reduce bureaucracy.

Vocabulary Learning

retracted (v.)

to withdraw or cancel a statement, publication, or claim

Example:The journal retracted the article after discovering data fabrication.

plagiarism (n.)

the act of copying someone else's work or ideas without giving proper credit

Example:The university’s zero‑tolerance policy against plagiarism is strictly enforced.

co-investigator (n.)

a researcher who works jointly with the lead investigator on a project

Example:Each grant application must include a co-investigator from the lead researcher’s institution.

bureaucracy (n.)

complex and often rigid administrative procedures and structures

Example:The reforms aim to reduce bureaucracy in the grant application process.

administrative (adj.)

relating to the organization, management, or governance of an institution

Example:Administrative rules were simplified to make inter‑institutional collaboration easier.

discloses (v.)

to reveal or make known information that was previously hidden or unknown

Example:Applicants must disclose any previous research publications that were retracted.

gap (n.)

a missing space, difference, or lack of something

Example:A large gap in global research data prompted the new policy changes.

retractions (n.)

the act of withdrawing a publication or statement

Example:India was responsible for 20% of the 4,000 global retractions in 2025.

zero tolerance (phrase)

a strict policy that allows no exceptions or leniency

Example:The ANRF has a zero tolerance policy toward plagiarism.

high‑impact (adj.)

producing significant influence or importance in a field

Example:The foundation coordinates high‑impact research alongside other national agencies.

obstacles (n.)

hindrances or barriers that impede progress

Example:The new rules remove financial and administrative obstacles for researchers.

collaborating (v.)

working jointly with others to achieve a common goal

Example:Collaborating researchers can now work together more easily under the revised guidelines.