(a) whether the research work in the field of Science is declining in the country;
(b) if so, the facts thereof for the last three years including current year;
(c) whether the Government is making any plan for advancement of scientific research by promoting indigenous talented scientists;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) the number of persons granted financial assistance for the same during the above period?
MINISTER OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(DR. HARSH VARDHAN)
(a) & (b): No, Madam. India''s performance in research is promising and impressive in recent years which is evident from the fact that India’s position globally in scientific publications, as per Scopus database, has improved from 12th position in 2005 to 6th position in 2013 with a growth rate of 13.4% as against the world average of 4.4% during 2005-2013. In the field of nanoscience and technology, India’s position has moved from 6th in 2011 to 3rd in 2013. Recent report of Springer Nature has indicated that India is ascending towards world-class science and our country is at 13th position globally on an index of world-class scientific journals. Between 2012 and 2014, Indian Chemistry research increased rapidly with a compound annual growth rate of 8.6% and it stood second only to the United States of America in terms of number of publications.
(c) & (d): Yes, Madam. Government has instituted many schemes to promote indigenous talent of scientists for advancement of scientific research in the country. The Swarnajayanti Fellowship and Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Faculty Scheme of Department of Science and Technology (DST), J.C Bose Fellowship of Science and Engineering Research Board and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize instituted by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) are meant for recognition of indigenous talent and outstanding contribution of scientists to science and technology by Indian scientists. Young Scientist Medal/Award of Academies and CSIR are designed to identify talented scientists. Some other measures taken by the Government to attract more and more talented scientists towards advancement of research include successive increase in plan allocations for Scientific Departments, offering attractive research fellowships, strengthening infrastructure for Research and Development (R&D) and implementing programs like Nano Mission, Solar Energy Research Initiative etc.
(e) A total of 22100 persons has been granted financial assistance by the DST and Department of Biotechnology during the last three years including current year.
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