India’s path to future economic growth is paved with green initiatives, as Union Minister of State for Science and Technology (Independent Charge) and Minister of State for Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy The light is on. , and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh.
During an exclusive interview at the ‘Green Ribbon Champions’ Conclave, Dr. Singh emphasized the critical role of industry participation in startups, research and development to realize this vision. Dr. Singh emphasized the need to incorporate ‘green financing’ into India’s economic framework from the outset.
He expressed his belief that there was a need for greater industrial engagement and industry involvement at the outset, as he believed that without it it was not possible to move beyond a certain point. This holistic approach recognizes the fundamental interaction between industry and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Singh predicts that the emerging bioeconomy will become an important source of livelihood in the coming years. India’s bioeconomy was worth around USD 10 billion in 2014 and today it has reached USD 80 billion, he revealed impressive growth figures. They expect it to reach USD125 billion by 2025 in just 8/9 years, highlighting the rapid growth that underlines the potential and importance of India’s green sector.
A major development in this effort is the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), recently announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr. Singh highlighted that the NRF will leverage substantial non-governmental resources, effectively bridging the gap between the public and private sectors, promoting greater synergy for future development.
He said that NRF will also act as a think tank, which will determine the topics of projects to be undertaken and provide funding based on needs or future visions/projections including international cooperation. He emphasized that this approach will ensure that innovation remains at the forefront.
The Anusandhan NRF Act was successfully passed by Parliament in the recent Monsoon Session, for which an allocation of Rs. 50,000 crore in five years. The initiative aims to foster a culture of research and innovation in India’s academic institutions, research facilities and R&D laboratories, further stimulating clean energy research and mission innovation. Notably, up to 70% of its funding will come from non-governmental sources.
Dr. Singh also praised Prime Minister Modi’s National Education Policy, NEP-2020, as a transformative initiative that frees students from the shackles of traditional career paths. He noted that NEP-2020’s provision for multiple entry/exit options promotes educational flexibility, enabling students to explore diverse career opportunities based on their aptitude and interests. He also stated that it will affect every area of our lives, even our mental health, and that citizens or youths will not spend their whole lives as ‘prisoners of their aspirations’. Raised by parents.
India’s journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future is firmly anchored on the principles of green economy, research and innovation, driven by the visionary leadership of Dr. Jitendra Singh and transformative initiatives like Anusandhan NRF and the National Education Policy. Supported by policies.
This comprehensive approach promises to usher in a new era of growth, prosperity and environmental responsibility for the nation.
First Published: 03 Oct 2023, 23:50 IST