Why in the News?

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed the need for genuine research and innovation that can bring real change. He called for indigenisation beyond basic levels and highlighted the role of patents and technology in making India a global leader.

What constitutes “authentic and practical research”?

• Authenticity: The Vice President stressed that research must be genuine and not merely superficial.
  • Authentic research should correlate with real-world changes and have lasting significance rather than being momentarily relevant before gathering dust on shelves.
• Cutting-edge Nature: He called for research that is at the forefront of innovation, pushing boundaries rather than just covering existing knowledge.
• Practical Impact: The Vice President emphasized that research should aim to change ground realities, making it essential for it to be applicable and impactful in society.

How can India improve its research and development (R&D) landscape?

• Focus on Patents: The Vice President pointed out that India’s contribution to global patents is lacking. He urged a shift towards more consequential fields of research that can enhance India’s standing in the global community.
• Nurturing Startups: He called for supporting domestic startups and indigenous component development, suggesting that established companies like BEL should help these startups thrive by providing guidance and resources.
• Educational Reform: Emphasizing the need to instill a spirit of innovation in students, he noted that educational institutions should foster creativity and practical skills rather than merely focusing on degrees.

What are the initiatives to improve the Research Ecosystem in India?

• Encouraging Corporate Involvement: The Vice President highlighted the necessity for corporates to take initiative in R&D, suggesting that they converge on a platform to significantly boost research efforts.
• Leading in Semiconductors: He urged BEL to lead the semiconductor revolution from design to manufacture, indicating a strategic direction for enhancing technological capabilities in India.

What are the barriers to effective research in India?

• Superficial Research Output: The tendency to produce research that lacks depth and practical application is a significant barrier. The Vice President criticized research papers that are presented but quickly forgotten, calling for more substantial contributions.
• Limited Global Recognition: He noted that much of India’s research does not achieve recognition at an international level, which undermines its potential impact.
• Awareness of Opportunities: Many young individuals remain unaware of the diverse opportunities available beyond traditional government jobs, limiting their engagement with innovation and entrepreneurship.

Way forward: 

• Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration: Foster partnerships between academic institutions and industries to ensure research is aligned with practical needs, enhancing innovation and commercialisation opportunities.
• Incentivizing High-Impact Research: Establish grants, rewards, and global recognition programs for researchers focusing on cutting-edge and transformative fields, driving significant contributions to India’s R&D landscape.

Mains PYQ:

Q Do you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for development reduces the importance of community participation in the development process? Justify your answer.(UPSC IAS/2022)

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