Budget 2024-25
Empowering Research to Fulfil Scientific Aspirations
Dr. Manish Mohan Gore
India's 2024-25 budget highlights its commitment to technological advancement and science-based development. Significant funds have been allocated for scientific research, emphasising the government's focus on strengthening the country's scientific infrastructure and capabilities.
Key Allocations for Science and Technology
The Department of Space received an 18% increase in funding, with the majority allocated for the development of space technology. The budget allocated Rs. 13,042.75 crore to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this funding is aimed at supporting ISRO's ambitious projects, including the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into space and other initiatives aimed at expanding India's space capabilities.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) received an allocation of Rs. 8,029.01 crore, a modest increase from Rs. 7,931 crore in the previous fiscal year. The DST plays a critical role in funding research and development across a wide range of scientific disciplines, supporting research based solutions that can address national challenges and enhance India's technological capabilities. The increase in funding underscores the government's ongoing support for projects that drive scientific discovery and technological advancements.
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) received Rs. 2,251.52 crore for the year. This funding is crucial for promoting biotechnology research in India, which has significant applications in healthcare, agriculture and environ-mental sustainability. The DBT supports initiatives that range from genetic research and the development of new medical therapies to sustainable agricultural practices.
The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), which includes the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has received Rs. 6,323.41 crore. The CSIR is a premier national R&D organisation that undertakes a wide range of scientific and industrial research projects. This funding is essential for advancing research in areas such as materials science, chemical engineering and environmental technology.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences has been granted Rs. 2,521.83 crore. This allocation supports critical research in areas such as meteorology, oceanography and seismology. The Ministry plays a key role in environmental monitoring, weather forecasting and disaster management, all of which are increasingly important as India faces the impacts of climate change.
The overall increase in funding across these departments reflects the government's strategy to boost India's scientific and technological infrastructure. This investment is seen as crucial for fostering a knowledge-based economy, supporting high-impact research and addressing national and global challenges. The emphasis on science and technology in the budget highlights the government's recognition of the sector's potential to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in India.
S&T Schemes and Initiatives Fostering Development
The Union Budget 2024-25 has strengthened several schemes and initiatives in the science and technology sector, reflecting the government's strategic focus on innovation, research and development. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to position India as a global leader in scientific research and technological advancements.
Anusandhan National Research Foundation: A major highlight of the budget is the establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). The ANRF aims to foster a robust research culture across the country by providing funding for high-impact research in various fields, including science, technology, social sciences and humanities. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and industry needs, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Gaganyaan Mission and Space Station Development: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has received a significant budget increase, with Rs. 13,042.75 crore allocated for space exploration projects. This includes the ambitious Gaganyaan mission and the development of a dedicated space station by 2035. These projects are part of India's broader strategy to enhance its capabilities in human spaceflight and deep space exploration.
Biotechnology Innovation: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has been allocated Rs. 2,251.52 crore, focusing on new initiatives in health and agriculture. The budget supports advanced research in genomics, vaccine development and biotechnology applications for sustainable agriculture. This includes projects aimed at improving crop yield, developing disease-resistant varieties, and addressing public health challenges through biotechnological solutions.
Climate and Environmental Research: The Ministry of Earth Sciences has received Rs. 2,521.83 crore, with new schemes focusing on climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability. This includes initiatives for enhanced weather forecasting, oceanography studies, and research on natural disaster mitigation. The budget also lays emphasis on projects aimed at understanding and responding to the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Scientific and Industrial Research
The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), including the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), was allocated Rs. 6,323.41 crore. New schemes under this allocation include the development of advanced materials and technologies for industrial applications. The focus is also on green technologies and sustainable industrial practices, supporting India's transition to a low-carbon economy.
Digital and Technological Innovation
The budget also highlights initiatives for digital innovation, including the expansion of digital infrastructure and support for emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Quantum Computing. These schemes aim to boost India's capabilities in these cutting-edge fields, promoting innovation and enhancing the country's competitiveness in the global technology landscape.
Enhancing Collaboration and Innovation
India's science and technology budget for 2024-25 showcases the government's dedication to enhancing its research and innovation capabilities. The increased funding across various departments aims to support a broad spectrum of scientific activities, from fundamental research to applied sciences, positioning India as a significant player in the global scientific community. The strategic initiatives and investments in this budget reflect a balanced approach, focusing on both foundational research and applied sciences. This investment is crucial for fostering innovation, addressing pressing national challenges and positioning India as a global leader in science and technology.
As India continues to implement these strategic initiatives, the country is set to make significant progress in various fields, driving economic growth, improving the quality of life for its citizens and contributing to global scientific knowledge. The Union Budget 2024-25 marks a pivotal moment in India's journey towards a more innovative and sustainable future, laying the groundwork for a thriving research ecosystem and a stronger, more resilient nation.
(The author is a Scientist with CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research, New Delhi. Feedback on this article can be sent to feedback.employmentnews@gmail. com)
Views expressed are personal.