The ICMR coordinates the processing, implementing and monitoring of biomedical research programmes carried out under the auspices of either bilateral agreements between India and countries such as USA, UK, Russia and other countries ( i.e. former USSR), France, Germany, etc. or as assistance from international agencies such as WHO, Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, UNDP, IDRC, etc. Proposals are subjected to a peer review process followed by clearance from the Government of India. These programmes are intended to facilitate and promote biomedical research in areas of mutual interest to India and other countries/international agencies, with transfer of technology being one of the prime objectives. The facilities available and the modalities of operation vary according to the country or agency concerned. Other Departments/Agencies of the Government of India also deal with similar programmes, foremost among them being the Department of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, etc. The ICMR is consulted by and interacts with these agencies for the approval of proposals dealing with biomedical research for implementation. Information on specific procedures for international collaboration/assistance in biomedical research is available with the Indo-Foreign Cell of the ICMR.