How innovations in science, technology pave the way for Atmanirbhar Bharat | So Good News

The idea of ​​becoming Atmanirbhar is very important in realizing India’s dream of becoming an economic powerhouse. However, achieving economic success is not easy, especially in today’s interconnected world where the economic future of each country is tied to that of other countries.

To realize its true economic potential, India must focus on the role of science and technology in nation-building, from farm to factory.

You don’t have to go far to see innovation in science and technology and its impact on the nation. Two stories come to mind, one of incredible feats in space and one of rising to the occasion and responding in a crisis.

The first is ISRO ₹800 crore Mars mission or Chandrayaan-2 mission, it was called, was built cheaper than Hollywood movie Interstellar.

The second is to step up to the situation during a pandemic. From Covaxin, which gave India its first indigenous vaccine, to companies coming together to produce face masks, PPE kits and work on oxygen concentrators for 1.4 billion people, it was a collective show not only of unity but of scientific prowess.

If we can achieve such remarkable results in a crisis, the question must be asked, what prevents us from reaching our true potential under normal circumstances?

An idea is the basis of all economic development and the realization of this idea again depends on scientific efforts. Get any product you can think of. Without the latest scientific technology and advancements, it would be just an idea. This brings us to another point. If we are truly aware of the tremendous role of science and technology, we must increase our spending on research and development. According to a study 2 conducted by NITI Aayog and the Institute of Competitiveness, India’s expenditure on research and development is the lowest in the world at US$ 43 per capita. The report further suggests that for India to achieve its goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy, India’s total expenditure on GERD or R&D needs to increase to 2% of its total.

Domestic product. Here, corporations and government can work together to increase R&D spending.

A change of mind

Does India need a mindset change? A change in perception of trusting the power of technology, not only for mega-projects, but also at the grassroots level, which attracts engineers and corporations. This subtle shift in thinking about how we use science and technology leads to tectonic shifts in outcomes.

We need to expand the reach of science and technology in a fashion that embraces hyperlocal innovation. The greatness of combining hyperlocal innovation and national-level innovation will be the hallmark of a well-functioning technique for the betterment of the nation, fine-tuning solutions for tomorrow.

(Dr. Richard Lobo, Head of Innovation and CQH- Business Excellence, Tata Chemicals)