Introducing Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, 2013 - II

For ‘Introducing Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, 2013-I’ see here

For analysis, see here.

Gaining Global Competitiveness through Collaboration

The STI Policy, 2013 acknowledges open source discoveries as an “interesting innovation system”. Further, it recognizes that knowledge commons is an emerging theme for managing IPRs created through multi-stake holder participation. The policy intends to foster data sharing and access. The policy also intends to tap global resources including Indian diaspora for accelerating the pace of technology-led development. It envisages multi-sectoral partnerships, strategic partnerships and alliances for pursuing its objectives.

Performance-Reward Relationships

The STI Policy, 2013 envisages an incentive model for individual researchers who have proven track record. It intends to set up a “well-designed centrally implementable Performance Related Incentive Scheme (PRIS) for basic research leading to scientific publications.”

Social Inclusion

The STI Policy, 2013 makes it amply clear that it does not envisage an innovation model which is disconnected from the larger sections of the society. In fact, it aims to increase accessibility, availability and affordability of innovations. In this regard, it intends to establish a fund for social inclusion.  The policy envisages enhancing public awareness and public accountability of STI sector.

The policy also emphasizes on gender parity. It intends to put in place flexible schemes for addressing the mobility challenges of employed women scientists and technologists. Further, it intends to provide a broad scope for re-entry of women into R&D.

“Enterprise and Leadership” as the new mantra

The policy sets out measures for nurturing a conducive ecosystem for STI. It candidly states that “risks are integral parts of a vibrant national innovation system and policies must provide for risk management strategies.” Further, “education is currently focused on understanding; it should now embrace emphasis on Applications as well. Venture capital systems need to adventure in risky innovations rather than to rely on incremental innovations, new financing mechanisms for investing in enterprises without fear of failure and options for foreclosing unsuccessful ventures are essential part of such an enabling innovation ecosystem. India’s innovation machinery should aim to lead rather than to follow safe paths of discovery. Hence Trust, Risk, Application, Venture. Enterprise and Leadership should form new mantras of the new STI ecosystem.”

Science, Research and Innovation System for High Technology-led path for India (SRISHTI)

The STI Policy, 2013, by the instant framework as set out above, intends to “to accelerate the pace of  discovery and delivery of science-led solutions for serving the aspirational goals of India for faster, sustainable and inclusive growth.” The goal is to nurture a strong and viable Science, Research and Innovation System for High Technology-led path for India (SRISHTI).