Hindu Editorial Analysis : 21-July-2023
The state of research in India has been a cause of concern for many years. The country’s spending on research has been significantly lower than other nations with strong science and technology bases, and the number of students enrolled in PhD programs is alarmingly low. This essay delves into the hurdles and challenges faced by researchers in India, along with the government’s initiatives to boost research in higher education. The focus then shifts to the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023, which aims to revolutionize the funding of research in the country.
Status of the Research Field in India
- Low Spending on Research: India’s research spending has historically remained between 0.6%-0.8% of GDP, considerably lower than countries heavily reliant on science and technology, which typically spend 1%-2% of GDP. In 2019-20, the private sector contributed only about 36% of the total research expenditure, a stark contrast to nations like China, the U.S., and Israel, where private sector contributions accounted for nearly 70%.
- Insufficient Research Enrollments: The number of students enrolled in PhD programs in 2018 was a mere 0.5% of the total student enrollment in higher education. This indicates a lack of interest and investment in pursuing research-oriented careers.
Hurdles & Challenges
- Rooted in Early Schooling: India’s education system faces a fundamental challenge where students tend to memorize textbooks without applying critical thinking. This issue persists through higher education, hindering the development of a research-oriented mindset.
- Lack of Scientific Training: The absence of proper scientific training and research methodology is a significant obstacle for researchers in India. Competent researchers are scarce, limiting the country’s research capabilities.
- Insufficient Coordination: Inadequate interaction between university research departments and business establishments, government bodies, and research institutions hinders collaborative efforts and knowledge sharing.
- Inadequate Investment: Compared to other countries, India lacks sustained government support to universities and research institutions, leading to fewer private sector research companies and ventures.
- Absence of Code of Conduct: The lack of a standardized code of conduct for researchers results in inter-university and interdepartmental rivalries, which adversely affect the research ecosystem.
- Delays and Lack of Rewards: Researchers often face challenges in accessing adequate secretarial and computer assistance, leading to delays in research completion. Furthermore, the lack of rewards for researchers discourages them from achieving their full potential.
Government’s Initiatives to Boost Research in India
- Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA): The Ministry of Human Resource Development launched RUSA to strategically fund higher education institutes in the country, aimed at improving the research landscape.
- National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF): In 2015, the NIRF was introduced to rank universities and institutes based on various parameters, including research performance.
- Institutes of Eminence (IoE) Scheme: The GoI initiated the IoE scheme to support 20 institutes in becoming world-class universities, providing a platform for research excellence.
The National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023
The NRF Bill proposes the creation of a centralized body to fund research with a budget of ₹50,000 crore over the next five years. Inspired by models like the U.S. National Science Foundation and the European Research Council, the NRF aims to secure a major portion of its budget, approximately ₹36,000 crore, from the private sector. This move is expected to galvanize research in Indian universities by attracting increased private investment.
Why In News
Among the most pivotal pieces of legislation scheduled to be introduced in the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament is the groundbreaking National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023. This visionary bill aims to revolutionize research funding and foster innovation, positioning the nation at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements for years to come.
MCQs about The National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023
-
What is the primary challenge faced by researchers in India, hindering their research performance?
A. Insufficient government funding for universities and research institutions
B. Lack of scientific training and research methodology skills
C. Inadequate coordination between university research departments and businesses
D. Absence of a standardized code of conduct for researchers
-
What initiative was launched to rank universities and institutes in India based on various parameters, including research performance?
A. Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA)
B. Institutes of Eminence (IoE) Scheme
C. National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill
D. National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)
-
How does the National Research Foundation (NRF) Bill, 2023, aim to boost research funding in India?
A. By allocating ₹50,000 crore to research institutes over five years
B. By drawing on models from the U.S. National Science Foundation and European Research Council
C. By increasing government spending on research to 2% of GDP
D. By encouraging universities to collaborate with international research institutions
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
