Challenges in Public Funded Research and Development Institutions in India
A recent report highlights significant issues concerning the staffing and functioning of public funded research and development institutions in India.
Staffing Concerns
- There has been a decrease in the number of permanent scientific staff in several of the 244 institutions studied in 2022-23 compared to the previous year.
- The number of organizations hiring permanent staff also declined in 2022-23.
- In 2022-23, there were 19,625 contractual staff compared to 12,042 permanent staff, marking a 14% increase in contractual hires over 2021-22.
- The prevalence of contractual workers over permanent staff is a significant concern.
Sector Exclusion
- The study, commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, excludes 'strategic sectors' like defense, atomic energy, and space, which receive substantial R&D funding.
Parliamentary Report Findings
- A Parliamentary Standing Committee report indicated that nearly 60% of sanctioned scientific posts at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) are vacant.
- TIFR is primarily funded by the Department of Atomic Energy.
- On average, one in four sanctioned posts at key atomic energy research institutions and nuclear power plants is unfilled.
Government Initiatives and Challenges
- The government has announced initiatives for quantum computing and artificial intelligence development.
- Efforts to align R&D with industry-specific research are underway.
- However, these initiatives require adequately staffed institutions with engaged full-time scientists.
Recommendations
- There is a need to ensure favorable conditions for research, including competitive salaries, adequate funding, and necessary equipment.
- Institutions must focus on retaining young researchers for long-term careers in cutting-edge research.
