Basic research, a pre/requisite for applied research leading to developmental activity, conducted by the academic institutions, was supported by the Academy by instituting programmes to individual scientists, interdisciplinary and multi-institutional programmes. With the emergence of major funding bodies in the country for carrying out scientific research, the Academy modified its programme to support individual scientists. The programme now involves INSA Distinguished Professors for promotion and service to science, support to INSA superannuated Fellows and INSA Visiting Scientists.

The Academy also provides partial financial assistance for organising international/national conferences, symposia or seminars in India.