Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, sparked a discussion on higher education and research in India. He highlighted that many PhD holders in India enter doctoral programs as a fallback option rather than out of genuine interest. Singh expressed concerns over the employability of PhD graduates and the quality of research in the country.
Singh noted that some PhD graduates struggle to find suitable employment because they pursued doctoral studies not out of a passion for knowledge but due to limited career options. He observed a mismatch between students’ aptitude and their academic pursuits. Singh emphasized the need for a shift towards a system that values aptitude, innovation, and problem-solving abilities over degrees.
The Minister credited the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for laying the foundation for this transformation. He predicted a shift in India’s research landscape, expecting fewer but academically stronger PhD graduates in the future. Singh stressed the importance of fostering a research culture that prioritizes quality over quantity to propel India as a global innovation leader.
Singh highlighted India’s achievements in the startup ecosystem, innovation, and scientific excellence. He emphasized the need to support aptitude-driven career choices and create an environment where research is pursued with passion. The Minister called for a change in mindset among parents, educators, and institutions to encourage unconventional paths in research and entrepreneurship.
