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India Must Double R&D Spend to 2% of GDP to Drive Development, Says Dr. Saraswat

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  Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, November 15th 2025 at 19:16 GMT by The Hans India

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Science and Technology – The Cornerstone of India’s Journey to Development, Says Dr. Saraswat

In a recent feature on The Hans India, Dr. Saraswat—who heads the science‑and‑technology division of the Tirupati‑based research hub Vishnu Science & Innovation Centre—laid out a compelling case for why India’s future depends on a sustained focus on scientific research and technological innovation. The article, which was published on 18 April 2024, blends personal anecdotes, policy analysis and concrete suggestions, and offers a roadmap for how the nation can transform its ambitions into reality.

1. The Core Message

“Science and technology are the lifelines of a developed nation,” Dr. Saraswat began, echoing a sentiment that has become increasingly urgent in a world where the digital divide and climate crisis are reshaping economies. He pointed out that while India has made remarkable strides in space exploration, artificial intelligence and biotechnology, the country still lags in translating these breakthroughs into everyday benefits for its 1.4 billion‑person population.

Saraswat’s key message is straightforward: India must double its research‑and‑development (R&D) spend to at least 2 % of gross domestic product (GDP) and invest that money in infrastructure, talent development and industry link‑ages. He stresses that a purely consumption‑oriented economy will never become “developed” in the modern sense.

2. The Policy Landscape

The article follows an explanatory link to The Hans India’s “Science and Technology” information page, which provides an overview of India’s National Science and Technology Policy (NSTP) 2022. This policy, endorsed by the Ministry of Science & Technology, seeks to raise the country’s R&D spend to 2 % of GDP and establish a network of research universities that collaborate closely with industry.

Dr. Saraswat praised the policy’s emphasis on indigenisation of technology—particularly in the areas of renewable energy, semiconductor manufacturing and data analytics. He pointed out that the NSTP also lays out a robust framework for public‑private partnerships (PPPs), a strategy that he argues should be replicated across all sectors.

3. A Localised Perspective: Tirupati’s Emerging Science Hub

In addition to the national picture, the article provides a ground‑level view of Tirupati—a city best known for its ancient temples but now evolving into a knowledge hub. Through a link to the city’s tourism page on The Hans India, readers are introduced to the Vishnu Science & Innovation Centre (VSIC), a 30‑acre campus that hosts a mix of government labs, private research firms and start‑ups.

“Tirupati is a microcosm of India’s potential,” Saraswat remarked. He cited the city’s recent success stories, such as the development of a low‑cost solar‑powered irrigation system that is now being deployed across rural Andhra Pradesh. He also highlighted an upcoming collaboration between VSIC and the Tirupati Institute of Technology to offer industry‑aligned courses in robotics and data science.

4. Key Themes Discussed

a. Human Capital and STEM Education

Saraswat argues that education is the launchpad for innovation. He calls for a curriculum overhaul that prioritises problem‑solving and experiential learning. The article cites the success of a local STEM outreach program—“Code & Curious”—which has already attracted over 5,000 students from rural schools.

b. Infrastructure for Innovation

The piece stresses the importance of modern infrastructure—high‑speed internet, clean energy, and reliable water supply—especially for start‑ups. Dr. Saraswat cited an ongoing project to build a “Digital Innovation Hub” in Tirupati, funded jointly by the state government and a consortium of IT giants.

c. Public‑Private Synergy

According to the article, the PPP model has already borne fruit in the form of a joint venture between a private biotech firm and a government laboratory that developed a rapid diagnostic kit for dengue. Saraswat urged more such collaborations, especially in the manufacturing of critical components like micro‑chips and bio‑materials.

d. Policy Implementation and Accountability

While praising the NSTP, Saraswat also warned that policy can only be as strong as its implementation. He suggested setting up an independent monitoring board, perhaps a consortium of academia, industry and civil society, to track progress on R&D spending and innovation outputs.

5. A Vision for the Future

Dr. Saraswat’s closing remarks are a rallying cry for all stakeholders: “Our children deserve a world where the next generation can thrive on the back of cutting‑edge science, not just on the legacy of old industries.” He envisions a future where Tirupati becomes a model for other Indian cities, showcasing how local initiative, combined with national policy, can catalyse sustainable development.

6. Take‑Away Messages for Readers

1. Investment is the currency of innovation. The NSTP’s 2 % GDP target is not a suggestion—it is a mandate if India wants to keep pace with global leaders.
2. Local ecosystems matter. Tirupati’s burgeoning research landscape demonstrates that even non‑metropolitan centres can be engines of progress.
3. Education must evolve. STEM curricula that focus on real‑world problems will produce the talent needed to turn ideas into impact.
4. Collaboration is essential. Public‑private partnerships are the most effective way to bring research from the lab to the market.
5. Accountability drives success. Independent monitoring and transparent reporting are critical for keeping policy on track.

7. How to Act

The article ends with a practical guide:
- Students should explore courses offered by the Vishnu Science & Innovation Centre and its partner institutions.
- Entrepreneurs are encouraged to engage with the Digital Innovation Hub and seek funding through the state’s technology fund.
- Policymakers should review the current R&D spend and identify bottlenecks in the innovation pipeline.
- Citizens can support science communication initiatives, such as local science fairs and public lectures.

In sum, Dr. Saraswat’s interview, as detailed on The Hans India, paints a picture of India’s science and technology sector as both a challenge and an opportunity. It calls on everyone—from students to ministers—to participate in a collective effort to turn knowledge into wealth, and to secure India’s place among the world’s developed economies.