In the wake of recent recognition of Indian scientists Ashok Gadgil and Subra Suresh by US President Joe Biden, a pertinent question arises – How long will India keep patting its back for the achievements of its Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) or people of Indian origin?
Gadgil and Suresh were awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, and the National Medal of Science, respectively. Their recognition underscores the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora to the US’s social and economic growth. However, it also brings to light an untapped potential that India could leverage to enhance its science, technology, and innovation capacity.
Currently, India’s investment in Science & Technology (S&T) is not substantial. Only 0.36% of the 2023-24 budget was allocated for it, which is quite low compared to other G20 countries. But recent steps like establishing the National Research Foundation and launching initiatives such as Vaishvik Bhartiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) fellowships are seen as positive moves. These initiatives aim to develop engagements between industry and academia through collaborative research and learning.
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The idea is that while people should be free to move to achieve their potential, India, with global ambitions, should build capacity to attract fresh talent, not just retain its own. The success stories of Gadgil and Suresh, who are products of both the Indian university/IIT system and the US university/research system, highlight a winning formula that India could tap into.
It’s time for India to move beyond celebrating the achievements of its diaspora and start leveraging this vast pool of talent for its own development. After all, a nation’s progress is measured not just by the success of its expatriates but by how well it utilises its human resources for its own growth.
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