Only 1 in 4 public-funded R&D organisations in India support start-ups, and only 1 in 6 support deep tech start-ups.
Just 15% collaborated with foreign industries, and only half opened their labs to outside researchers or students.
A study was done by CII and a research centre, commissioned by the Principal Scientific Adviser’s office.
Labs were asked to self-assess on 62 different parameters, including R&D spending, patents, young scientists, and women's participation.
Strategic sector labs (defence, space, atomic energy) were excluded due to sensitive work.
In 2020–21, the government spent ₹55,685 crore on R&D, but non-strategic agencies accounted for ₹24,587 crore.
About 25% of labs spent most (75–100%) of their budget on R&D, while many others spent less than average.
Several labs reported fewer permanent staff and more contract workers, but the share of young researchers rose to 58%.
The Principal Scientific Adviser said labs are shifting from pure science to innovation, and all labs should review and update their goals.
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