Concerns Over Funding in DBT Biocare Initiative

The Biocare programme has been operated by the DBT, a part of the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), since 2011.

It is primarily intended for the professional advancement of unemployed female scientists, who will receive the first government-approved extramural research funding.

A woman researcher with a doctorate chosen through the program can receive a ₹60 lakh funding for three years. This comprises a monthly salary element of ₹75,000.

Between 2020 and 2024, roughly 50 women scientists each year have benefited from the programme.

This year, 75 women scientists were selected; however, due to the lack of necessary sanction letters or funding, they could not start their research.

G expenditure on research and development in India

India's Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) as a share of GDP fluctuated between 0.6% and 0.7%, falling short of the global average and trailing behind nations such as China, South Korea, and the US.

Another reason for this is India's private sector's relatively low investment in GERD, which is only about 36%, while in the previously mentioned countries, private sector contributions exceed 70%.

Requirement for Financial Support in Research and Development

Economic Expansion: Fuels emerging sectors, boosts efficiency, and strengthens international competitiveness.

Technological Progress: Enables innovations in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy.

Social Issues: Assists in tackling problems related to poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability.

Employment Generation: Creativity fosters job opportunities and encourages entrepreneurship.

International Standing: Establishes India as a global frontrunner in science, technology, and expertise.

Draws Investment: Encourages both foreign and local investments in research-oriented industries.

Consequences of Insufficient Funding

Investment Issues: Insufficient funding for research and development, particularly in public organizations.

Infrastructure Shortcomings: Insufficient research facilities and resources across numerous institutions.

Talent Drain: Migration of skilled individuals to foreign nations in search of enhanced prospects.

The DBT, a division of the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST), has been running the Biocare programme since 2011.

It mainly aims to support the career growth of unemployed female scientists, who will obtain the initial government-sanctioned extramural research funding.

A woman researcher selected through the program with a doctorate can receive funding of ₹60 lakh for a period of three years. This includes a monthly salary component of ₹75,000.

From 2020 to 2024, approximately 50 women scientists annually have gained from the program.

This year, 75 women scientists were chosen; however, because of missing approval letters or funding, they could not begin their research.

G spending on research and development in India

India's Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) as a percentage of GDP varied from 0.6% to 0.7%, not reaching the global average and lagging behind countries like China, South Korea, and the US.

Another factor is that India's private sector invests relatively little in GERD, at about 36%, whereas in the previously mentioned nations, private sector contributions are over 70%.

Need for Funding in Research and Development

Economic Growth: Supports new industries, enhances productivity, and bolsters global competitiveness.

Technological Advancement: Facilitates breakthroughs in fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy.

Social Challenges: Aids in addressing issues concerning poverty, health care, education, and environmental sustainability.

Job Creation: Innovation cultivates employment prospects and promotes business ventures.

Global Standing: Positions India as a leader in science, technology, and knowledge on the world stage.

Attracts Investment: Promotes investments from both international and domestic sources in research-focused sectors.

Effects of Inadequate Financial Support

Investment Challenges: Inadequate financing for research and development, especially in public entities.

Infrastructure Deficiencies: Inadequate research facilities and resources throughout various institutions.

Talent Drain: The movement of skilled professionals to other countries seeking better opportunities.