(FREE) UPSC Current Affairs 2024 PDF

(GIST OF YOJANA) Vision and Roadmap for Science and Technology

(DECEMBER-2024)

Vision and Roadmap for Science and Technology

Introduction

India, celebrated for its profound legacy in science and technology, finds itself at a pivotal junction to merge traditional insights with contemporary progress. From Ayurveda and ancient architectural marvels to the essential tenets of chemistry and material engineering, our ancestral offerings present a treasure trove of undiscovered wisdom. By harnessing modern innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other burgeoning technologies, India can:

Establish a fresh framework for international scientific advancement.

Provide inventive solutions that unify ancient knowledge with state-of-the-art science.
Tackle pressing national issues, promote sustainable economic growth, and secure a competitive advantage in the global arena.
Achievements Realized India has significantly progressed in the realms of science, technology, and innovation in recent years:

Global Status and Research Progress

Elevated its global standing in scientific research from the 7th rank (2010) to the present 3rd rank.
Surpassed nations including the UK, Germany, and Japan in annual scientific publications in the last five years.

Ranked 3rd worldwide in the number of PhDs conferred in Science and Engineering, trailing only the US and China.
Increased twofold between 2018 and 2023.
Secured the 6th spot globally with 82,811 patent applications. Startup Ecosystem
India has emerged as the 3rd largest startup hub worldwide, boasting 140,000 startups (2024), a remarkable rise from just 450 in 2016 and over 115 unicorns.

Major Challenges:

In spite of outstanding advancements, India encounters several significant obstacles:

R&D Investment

Insufficient R&D funding: India allocates 0.64% of its GDP to R&D, considerably lower than the global average of 1.79%. Leading nations like China (2.43%), the USA (3.46%), and South Korea (4.93%) invest significantly more.
Minimal private sector contribution to R&D: A mere 37% of the total R&D expenditure is derived from the private sector in India, while in China it is 77%, in the USA 78%, and in South Korea 79%.
Limited number of R&D experts: India has 262 full-time equivalent R&D professionals for every million people, falling short compared to other major economies. Strategic Roadmap A forward-thinking blueprint with specific, quantifiable objectives is crucial for sustainable development.

Key areas of focus include:

Tackling climate change with transformative technologies: E-mobility, green hydrogen, nuclear power, photovoltaics, and solar panels for decarbonizing energy systems. Developing robust supply chain capabilities in these sectors for strategic independence.
Mitigating geopolitical threats: Cultivating expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and quantum cryptography to: Fortify national security, Attain strategic self-reliance, protect infrastructure from technological warfare.

Addressing resource limitations: Promote advancements in precision agriculture and high-end materials.
Strengthening supply chain resilience: Implement cutting-edge technologies such as Advanced manufacturing, AI-driven optimization, Quantum sensors, deep-sea mining, and space exploration.
Longevity and Life Viability: Modernizing healthcare infrastructures: Emphasize assistive technologies and preventive healthcare for an aging demographic. Creating sustainable urban environments: Innovate technologies for optimizing transport, housing, infrastructure, pollution management, and digital connectivity.

Key Initiatives and Achievements

Leading sectors: Smart materials, biofuels, Natural language processing (NLP), AI algorithms, photovoltaics, cybersecurity, quantum sensing, quantum cryptography, advanced optical communications, photonics, drones, and robotics.

(a) Bio-Economy and Biotechnology:

Aims for a US$ 300 million bio-economy by 2030.
Encourages bio-based chemicals, precision biotherapeutics, and lab-grown foods.

Space Exploration India's ambitious space ventures include:

Chandrayaan-4: Progressing lunar exploration.
Bharatiya Antariksha Station: India’s inaugural space station module by 2035.
Gaganyaan Mission: Launching a trio of crew members into space.
Astronaut Moon Landing: Anticipated by 2040..

Future Funding and Innovation an ambitious Rs 1 lakh crore R&D fund aims to:

Encourage private sector creativity.
Promote industrial applications of research.
Develop globally prominent industries to foster Atma Nirbharta in technology.

Way forward

India is well-positioned to spearhead global advancements in science and technology by tackling vital challenges in R&D funding and capacity. Merging traditional wisdom with contemporary innovations. Through collaboration among government, industry, and academia, and enforcing mission-driven initiatives, India can cement its role as a global pioneer in innovation, sustainability, and strategic technological advancement.