India’s R&D Funding: Breaking Down the Numbers

India’s R&D Ambitions:

• Technological and manufacturing advancements depend on a stronger R&D focus.
• Recent budget announcements aim to boost research and innovation.

Funding Landscape:

• India’s R&D spending (% of GDP) lags behind major economies (0.64% vs. China’s 2.4%).
• However, GERD (Gross Expenditure on R&D) has increased significantly (2010-2021).

Research Output & Innovation:

• Despite lower R&D spending, India:
  • Ranks 3rd globally in PhD graduates (40,813 annually).
  • Ranks 3rd globally in research publications (over 300,000 in 2022).
  • Holds the 6th position in patent grants.

Issues and Suggestions:

• Private sector investment in R&D is low (36.4% vs. government’s 43.7%).
• Collaboration between government, industry, and academia is crucial.
• India needs:
  • Stronger private sector involvement.
  • Enhanced industry-academia collaboration for knowledge transfer and innovation.
  • Policies to incentivize private R&D investment.

Impact of Initiatives:

• National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) aims to encourage private sector participation.
• Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Act focuses on research and innovation.
  • Challenges: equitable funding, interdisciplinary collaboration, upholding global standards.

Conclusion:

• Recent policies signal a positive shift towards private sector-led R&D, especially in new industries.

 

 

 

India-Ireland Relations: Looking to the Future

Shared History (1800s-1940s):

• British Colonization: Both fought for independence from a common enemy.
• Shared Influences:
  • Indian Constitution inspired by Ireland’s.
  • Leaders like Nehru & de Valera had connections.
  • Cultural exchange through figures like Yeats & Tagore.

Political & Economic Ties (1947-Present):

• Growing Trade: €363.5 million (2005) to €447.3 million (2007).
• Indian Exports: Garments, textiles, pharmaceuticals.
• Indian Imports: Technology, machinery.
• Business Connections:
  • Indian companies in Ireland (pharmaceuticals, IT).
  • Ireland India Council promotes business & cultural exchange.
  • Indian diaspora contributes through investment, trade, and tourism.

The Future:

• Ireland’s Asia-Pacific strategy emphasizes stronger ties with India.
• Building on cultural and political connections for further cooperation.
• Focus on increased trade, investment, and political collaboration.
• Key: Tapping into young talent for a more enduring partnership.