Magnetic Fields and Star Formation

<p>Magnetic fields can have a significant effect on the formation and evolution of molecular clouds and the formation of stars. The presence of strong magnetic fields restricts the motion of gas along the magnetic field lines. Therefore, it resists gravitational collapse, hinders mass accretion and suppresses fragmentation. While magnetic fields are an integral part of modern theory of interstellar medium and star formation, their direct measurements have been challenging. In this talk, I'll review recent progress on the observational front of magnetic fields. The emphasis will be on linear polarization of interstellar dust to probe the plane of sky component of magnetic fields.