GDP on Science and Technology

In order to boost the R&D activities in the country, the Government has enhanced the S&T Plan outlay of Scientific Departments/Agencies from Rs. 12,022 crores in 9th Plan to Rs. 25,243 crores in 10th Plan and plans to increase it further in 11th Plan. Further, various initiatives have been taken by the Government to encourage investment on R&D both in institutions and industry through several measures. These measures include higher allocation to scientific research, setting up of new institutions for science education and research, creation of centers of excellence and facilities in emerging and frontline areas in academic and national institutes, strengthening infrastructure for R&D in universities, encouraging public-private R&D partnerships, grants for industrial R&D projects, income tax relief on R&D expenditure, weighted tax deduction for sponsored research, custom duty exemption on goods imported for use in Government funded R&D projects, tax holidays and national awards for outstanding R&D.

The “Science and Technology Policy-2003” envisages an implementation strategy for revitalization of the Science & Technology institutions in the country. The key elements of the strategy include: (i) S&T governance and investment; (ii) Strengthening of infrastructure for Science and Technology in academic institutions; (iii) New funding mechanisms for basic research; (iv) Human resource development; (v) Industry and scientific R&D; and (vi) International S&T cooperation.

According to the available official statistics, the expenditure incurred on research and development in the field of science and technology constitutes 0.8 per cent of India’s GDP.

This information was given by the Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri Kapil Sibal in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.

Source : Press Information Bureau
Date : March 09, 2007