Bihar govt seeks SNSF, ICSSR collaboration to strengthen social sciences research

Bihar is set to explore greater collaboration in social sciences research with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), with a focus on academic exchange and expanding research opportunities.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting at Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary’s official residence, attended by former SNSF representatives Max Bergman and Zinette Bergman, ICSSR member secretary Dhananjay Singh and legislative council member Neeraj Kumar.

According to the Chief Minister’s Office, SNSF and ICSSR representatives expressed interest in partnering with the Bihar government to strengthen the state’s research ecosystem, facilitate academic exchanges and create new opportunities for social sciences research.

Choudhary emphasized the role of social sciences in understanding changing societal needs and improving the design of welfare programs and public policies.

“Cooperation from international institutions and universities would be important for upgrading education, developing skills and strengthening Bihar’s research culture. I hope that greater coordination between social sciences and other branches of science would lead to new research methodologies, and give impetus to the state’s educational and social development,” he said.

The chief minister also called on SNSF and ICSSR to broaden their research and academic engagement in Bihar.

He said stronger institutional collaboration could support the state’s educational and social development while contributing to the broader goals of a developed India and a prosperous Bihar.