Importance of Science and Technology for India’s Development
India aims to achieve its development goals by 2047, with a focus on science and technology in strategic sectors (e.g., space, defence, AI, biotechnology).
Investment in cutting-edge technologies is essential for global competitiveness and addressing societal challenges.
However, this increased focus on R&D raises concerns about research security.
Emerging Threats to Research Security
Threats include foreign interference, intellectual property theft, cyberattacks, and insider threats.
Research security refers to protecting sensitive data and technologies from espionage or exploitation, which could hinder national progress and strategic advantage.
Ensuring security in critical sectors like defence, space, and semiconductors is vital to India’s success.
Global Context and Lessons
Other countries, including the US, Canada, and the EU, have faced research security breaches, such as cyberattacks on vaccine research and foreign espionage.
China’s military-civil fusion strategy has been a key factor, as it encourages dual-use technology and foreign collaborations that may compromise security.
India can learn from these global examples and create a strong, risk-based framework to protect strategic research areas.
Strategies for Strengthening Research Security
Mapping vulnerabilities in the research ecosystem, including foreign influence and insider threats.
Develop a research security framework with guidelines for protecting sensitive research, while avoiding over-regulation.
Set up a dedicated office, like the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), to coordinate security efforts.
Engage researchers at all levels to balance academic freedom and open science with necessary security measures.
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