(a) whether there is decline in quality of Scientific Research Works of different disciplines;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons for decline in quality of Scientific Research Works; and
(c) the remedial steps taken by the Union Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF OCEAN DEVELOPMENT (SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)
(a) to (c): Views have been expressed at various fora indicating that there has been increasing contribution by Indian Scientists as well as some views on declining standards. Taking note of these concerns, the Government in order to improve the quality of research has taken significant measures by introducing a set of new initiatives. These include programmes like Fund for improvement of infrastructure for S&T in Universities and Higher Educational Institutions, ‘Ramanna Fellowship’: aimed to support outstanding performers, ‘Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Fellowships’: targeted at post-graduate talented students, “CSIR Diamond Jubilee Technology Awardsâ€: for Innovators for developing technology of the highest benchmarks of competitiveness and excellence and for inventions of school students, “Women Scientists Schemeâ€: instituted to provide opportunities to women scientists, ‘Swarnajayanti Fellowships’: for outstanding young scientists, Postdoctoral fellowship in Biotechnology, Bioscience Awards for career development etc. All these initiatives are aimed at providing encouragement to young scientists.