(a) whether it is a fact that there has been considerable decline in the scientific research;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor;
(c) whether it is also a fact that scientists of little known universities have shown better performance than the scientists of premier institutes of technology;
(d) if so, whether the Government have examined the reasons for decline in the quality of scientific research; and
(e) if so, steps taken by the Government to check this trend?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (SHRI BACHI SINGH RAWAT)
(a) & (b): Views have been expressed at different fora indicating that there has been a decline in scientific research.
(c) to (e): No, Sir. However, taking note of these concerns, a set of new initiatives have been taken by the Government to strengthen research activities in Universities and Academic Institutions through schemes like Fund for improvement of infrastructure for S&T in Universities and related institutions; Support to research in less endowed institutions; encouragement to young scientists etc.