Author: Atufa Shabnum
Editor: Olivia Kehoe
Photo Courtesy: Arch Daily, Image sourced from article written by Ankitha Gattupalli
The intersection of politics, culture, and science in India is a complex one, where each of these factors plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s scientific landscape. India has a rich scientific heritage and is home to some of the world’s oldest universities and institutions of higher learning like Nalanda University, University of Calcutta, and the Indian Institute of Science. In recent years, however, the country has faced several obstacles in its quest for scientific advancement, with political, cultural, and societal forces at play. What is the state of scientific progress in India, and what challenges do these factors represent?
Limited political backing for scientific research is a major issue facing India’s scientific community. Although the government has boosted financing for science in recent years, defence research is still the priority. The latest budget included ₹23,264 crore (approximately £2.3 billion) for India’s Defence Research and Development organisation, but only ₹16,361.42 crore (approximately £1.6 billion) for The Ministry of Science & Technology, making up only 0.36% of the Union budget. Fundamental scientific research, such as in biotechnology, or genomics, is less politically palatable, so is left underfinanced. This is perhaps because in India, there is often a tendency to focus on short-term goals over long-term investments. Scientific research typically requires a significant investment of time and resources before yielding results, which is less politically appealing for leaders looking for quick wins. Additionally, political decisions frequently lack a solid scientific foundation, overlooking investments into research that could inform policies. This, in turn, limits the ability of scientists to conduct meaningful research. For example, India is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, more frequent and severe heat waves, and changes in monsoon patterns, which could have significant economic, social, and environmental consequences. Despite this, politicians consistently fail to prioritise research into the specific impacts of climate change on India, which could inform more effective policy solutions. While there are some research efforts underway, such as the Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment (INCCA), the level of investment and resources does not meet the scale of the challenge. Without robust scientific evidence, it is difficult for policymakers to make informed, effective decisions. This limits not only the ability of scientists to carry out meaningful research, but also the ability of India to effectively adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Another major challenge is cultural attitudes toward science, where ancient wisdom and modern science often clash. Belief, faith and superstition in India may have greater influence over public perceptions of science than scientific rigour and methodology itself. For instance, despite a dearth of scientific proof to back their usefulness, traditional medications and home cures are widely used in India. As a result, scientists struggle to convince the public of the value of funding
scientific research. For example, cow urine is an ancient traditional medicine believed to have numerous therapeutic properties. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as skin diseases, diabetes, and cancer etc. However, scientific studies find no evidence that cow urine is an effective treatment for any of these conditions. Despite the lack of scientific evidence and potential health risks, cow urine treatments continue to be widely used in India and are even promoted by some religious and political leaders. This highlights the importance of promoting safe, effective, evidence-based medicine and ensuring that reliable information about traditional treatments is widely available.
Poor scientific literacy among the general public is a further barrier to scientific progress in India. Many people do not understand the scientific method or the importance of evidence-based decision-making, fueling public apathy towards science. This can make it difficult for scientists to carry out their work and for their findings to be taken seriously. In addition, a common lack of interest in science among young people makes it harder to attract the next generation of scientists.
Despite these challenges, there are many positive signs for the future of science in India. The country has a large and well-educated scientific workforce, with talented scientists across a range of fields. Additionally, there is increasing appreciation for the importance of science and technology in social and economic development. One example is the development of innovative medical technologies. Many Indian scientists and engineers have worked to create low-cost, portable ECG and ultrasound machines, which are improving access to healthcare for millions of people in rural areas. These technologies have been developed with the specific needs of the Indian population in mind, and they are helping to address some of the country’s most pressing health challenges, including non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Innovation in eco-friendly agricultural methods offers another example of how science has benefited India. Precision farming and water-saving irrigation systems are two sustainable technologies that Indian scientists and engineers have been developing to increase crop yields and improve food security. These technologies also promote sustainable economic growth in rural regions and reduce some of the negative environmental effects of agriculture.
Alongside these advancements, a number of recent policy changes by the Indian government are promoting scientific growth, including more funding for science and technology (although still not considered enough by experts), tax breaks for businesses that conduct research and development, and the opening of new research institutions, such as the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Berhampur. For example, the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2020 aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for research and innovation and to better connect science, technology, and industry.
While the scientific community in India faces several obstacles, such as a lack of political support and cultural beliefs that may impede advancement, there are also many encouraging signals for the place of modern science in the future of the nation. From low-cost, innovative healthcare technologies to sustainable technologies for agriculture, Indian scientists and engineers are making important contributions to the world and improving the lives of people in their country. There is still some way to go however, and pushing science and technology forward in India will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, the scientific community, and the general public, to support and promote scientific research and development.
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