India’s R&D spending double in one decade, redefining future economy: Dr Jitendra
STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) has more than doubled in the last decade, rising from Rs 60,196 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1,27,381 crore, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced while addressing the DISHA event at India Habitat Centre.
He emphasized that India’s future economy will be defined by homegrown innovations in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing, propelled by government-backed initiatives.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Singh, who holds multiple ministerial portfolios, outlined India’s strategy to become a global leader in deep-tech innovation and commercialization. He noted that increased R&D investment is enabling a seamless transition of innovations from laboratories to industries, strengthening the foundation of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The DISHA Program-Developing Innovations, Successful Harnessing, and Adoption-aims to build a knowledge-driven economy, ensuring research-driven solutions transform industries. It supports faculty members and students working on disruptive technologies, keeping India at the forefront of global innovation.
Dr. Singh highlighted that initiatives like DISHA align with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), which fosters an integrated research ecosystem across science, humanities, and social sciences. This holistic approach will empower Indian researchers to collaborate across disciplines and drive breakthrough innovations.
A major policy shift allowing private enterprises to enter strategic sectors like space technology and nuclear research has accelerated technological advancements, efficiency, and global competitiveness. The space sector, in particular, has witnessed rapid innovation, with startups contributing to satellite development, launch services, and space-based applications.
Similarly, the nuclear energy sector has been opened up to private players, a transformative move aimed at leveraging indigenous expertise to enhance energy security and sustainability.
Dr. Singh underscored the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, particularly in telemedicine and diagnostics. AI-powered mobile telemedicine units are expanding healthcare access to remote regions, making high-quality medical services more affordable and accessible.
However, he emphasized the need for balance between AI and human expertise, stating, “AI should complement human intelligence, not replace it.” A hybrid approach will ensure technology enhances rather than diminishes the role of skilled professionals.
With India set to complete 100 years of independence in 2047, Dr. Singh urged young innovators to lead the country’s technological transformation. “The investments we make in research and innovation today will determine India’s global standing in the decades to come,” he stated.
As the government continues to invest in deep-tech research, skill development, and industry-academia collaboration, programs like DISHA will be instrumental in positioning India as an innovation powerhouse, exporting cutting-edge solutions to the world.
