Experts gathered in New Delhi highlighted the disparity between India’s vast talent pool and the relatively modest investment in science and technology. Nobel Laureate Professor Jack Szostak emphasized the importance of boosting investment in science and education to tackle global challenges effectively. He noted that while India has pockets of world-class research, there is potential for much greater achievements with increased funding.
Professor Szostak, speaking at an event organized by Ashoka University, pointed out that the perception of science competing with social needs is a misconception. He stressed that enhancing investments in science and technology is crucial for addressing pressing issues faced by society today.
Former Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Professor K. VijayRaghavan, called for expanding the scale and reach of scientific research across the country. He emphasized the necessity of broadening access to research funding beyond elite institutions to foster innovation and development in emerging centers.
Priyamvada Natarajan, a Professor at Yale University, underscored the significance of sustained backing for fundamental research and the need for increased scientific investments. She urged India to seize the opportunity to intensify its focus on high-impact interdisciplinary research areas to shape the future of science globally.
Professor Rajesh Gopakumar, Director of the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS–TIFR), emphasized the importance of enhancing scientific research and promoting international collaboration. He advocated for a broader outlook in Indian science, emphasizing the value of global benchmarks and interdisciplinary dialogues to propel scientific advancements.
