India: A Resurgence in Science and Technology

India stands as a historical powerhouse in fields such as science, mathematics, and astronomy for over two millennia. From the innovative contributions of S.N. Bose to Ramanujan’s exceptional mathematical insights, Indian intellect has significantly influenced contemporary scientific paradigms. However, the current situation reveals that India is now lagging behind in the realm of advanced technology.

Concerns Raised by Industry Leaders

Mukesh Bansal, a co-founder of Myntra, expresses urgent concerns about this decline. On the platform X, he stated that “for 2,000 years, India led the world in science, mathematics, and astronomy,” noting that presently, there is a reliance on other countries like the US and China for pivotal technologies such as AI, GPUs, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, and innovative pharmaceutical developments.

Recognising Past Achievements

Bansal reflects on India’s illustrious past in science, citing Nobel laureates including C.V. Raman, S. Chandrasekhar, and Abdus Salam. Although S.N. Bose did not receive a Nobel Prize, his legacy endures through concepts like Bose-Einstein condensate and bosons, crucial to particle physics. Renowned institutions like IISc, TIFR, IITs, and BARC have been instrumental in laying the foundations for contemporary research. Visionaries such as Homi Bhabha, Satish Dhawan, and A.P.J. Abdul Kalam made significant strides despite facing resource constraints.

The Call for Action

Currently, Bansal warns that “a handful of global firms are defining the future of innovation.” For India to regain its prestigious position in scientific exploration, immediate action is required. He proposes a “Manhattan Project for Indian science and tech,” highlighting five urgent priorities:

• Elevate R&D expenditure to 1.5-2% of GDP (currently at a mere 0.6%).
• Create a vibrant deep-tech startup ecosystem complemented by robust industry-academia partnerships.
• Enhance STEM education to nurture an early passion for science and mathematics.
• Motivate researchers and academic staff to start companies and bring innovations to market.
• Invest in sustained research efforts to promote groundbreaking discoveries and original intellectual property.

A Vision for the Future

Bansal confidently asserts that “India has the talent,” yet highlights the necessity for courageous leadership, impactful reforms, and a forward-thinking philosophy.

India’s Nobel Prize Legacy

With a history of significant contributions, India’s Nobel laureates have made remarkable strides in the 20th century. Pioneers such as C.V. Raman, S. Chandrasekhar, Abdus Salam, S.N. Bose, and Ramanujan have left an indelible mark on global scientific thought, with three of these distinguished individuals receiving Nobel recognition.

Bansal envisions a future with 100 original-IP unicorns and an influx of new Indian Nobel laureates in the 21st century.