Scientific Policy Resolution 1958 and Indian Science Policy 2013

Scientific Policy Resolution (SPR), 1958

Background:

• After independence, India recognized the critical role of science and technology (S&T) in national development.
• The first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was a strong advocate of scientific temper and institution-building.
• SPR 1958 was the first official S&T policy of independent India.

Objectives:

• To promote scientific research and ensure its application in economic development.
• To build a robust scientific infrastructure and manpower.
• To foster a scientific temper among citizens.

Key Features:

1. Science for Development: The resolution emphasized that the cultivation of science is vital for the nation’s development in agriculture, industry, defense, and overall socio-economic progress.
2. Promotion of Research: Encouraged basic and applied research, especially in areas critical to India’s needs.
3. Scientific Temper: Advocated the development of a rational, evidence-based mindset across society.
4. Institution Building: Led to the creation of institutions like:
   • CSIR labs
   • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)
   • Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
5. Government’s Role: Recognized the role of the State in funding and guiding science through dedicated ministries and departments.
6. Human Resource Development: Emphasis on producing scientists, engineers, and technicians to meet national needs.

Impact:

• Laid the foundation of a public-sector led science and technology ecosystem.
• Boosted industrial research and national laboratories.
• Encouraged a scientific culture in policymaking and governance.

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Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP), 2013

Background:

• Emerged in the context of a globalized, knowledge-driven economy.
• Built upon earlier policies of 1958, 1983, and 2003.
• Recognized the centrality of innovation in addressing national challenges and inclusive growth.

Objectives:

• To place India among the top five global scientific powers.
• To link science, technology, and innovation with economic and social priorities.
• To increase private sector participation in R&D.

Salient Features:

1. Innovation-driven Growth:
   • Emphasized a shift from science for development to science-led innovation for inclusive growth.
   • Focused on creating an innovation ecosystem (startups, incubators, tech transfer offices).
2. Investment Targets:
   • Aimed to raise Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) to 2% of GDP, with significant contribution from private sector.
3. Inclusive Development:
   • Promoted technology for the masses, particularly rural and under-served populations.
   • Encouraged grassroots innovation, traditional knowledge, and gender parity in S&T.
4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
   • Encouraged industry-academia collaboration and PPP in R&D and technology commercialization.
5. Open Access and Global Cooperation:
   • Supported open access to scientific publications and data.
   • Strengthened international scientific collaborations and global positioning.
6. Capacity Building:
   • Aimed to enhance human capital in science through education, training, and mobility of researchers.
7. Technology Business Incubators (TBIs):
   • Promoted the creation of incubation centers and innovation clusters across universities and research institutions.
8. National Innovation System:
   • Called for coordinated action among ministries, institutions, industry, and civil society to promote innovation.

Impact and Challenges:

• Boosted the startup ecosystem and brought innovation into the national development agenda.
• However, challenges like low private R&D investment, brain drain, and bureaucratic hurdles persisted.
• GERD stagnated below 1% of GDP, despite policy targets.
• Implementation gap remained a key concern.