Propelling India’s development the right way

Source: The post is based on the article “Propelling India’s development the right way” published in “The Hindu” on 22nd September 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Awareness in the fields of Space.

News: The article focusses on India’s progress in space and technology since the 1960s, despite initial skepticism.

Technological advancement hasn’t eradicated poverty and inequality in the country. India needs to continue state support for technology and make economic growth inclusive by improving access to education for all.

How did India progress in space research?

Initiation in the 1960s: India began its journey into space research during the 1960s. At that time, many viewed this move as overly ambitious and even reckless for a young, struggling nation.

ISRO’s Establishment: Before the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) was set up in 1969, India had a significant space science program. This was coordinated by the Department of Atomic Energy, founded in the early 1950s.

Global Recognition: Over the years, India’s persistence in space research bore fruit. Notably, it became the first nation to land a rover on the moon’s south pole. Following this success, India embarked on a mission to study the sun.

Vision of Pioneers: Leaders like Vikram Sarabhai envisioned using satellites for diverse applications, such as building a nationwide telephone system and offering agricultural and health education.

What are the major hurdles for India’s progress in space and technology?

Persisting Inequalities: India’s enduring societal inequalities have hindered broad-based development and access to higher education for the underprivileged, impacting economic and industrial growth.

Lack of Effective Intervention: The state’s inability to effectively intervene and implement successful programs, like land redistribution, has perpetuated the disadvantages faced by oppressed communities.

Underinvestment in Education: The country’s consistent underinvestment in basic education has replicated historical inequalities in the labor market, with privileged groups predominantly accessing better-paying jobs.

Misdirected Investments: Some argue that focusing on capital- and technology-intensive industries, being a labour surplus country, was a misdirection of resources.

Long Gestation Period for Technologies: The time required for new technologies to fructify, and the initial effort needed are substantial, causing reliance on unwavering public funding.

What should be India’s path forward?

Reinstate State Support: India should renew efforts with state support to develop technological and industrial capabilities in emerging fields like semiconductors and biotechnology.

Promote Inclusive Growth: The country must intensify efforts to make economic growth inclusive, with a focus on making education, especially higher education, accessible to the dispossessed.

Revaluate Investment Focus: A reevaluation of investment focus is crucial; the emphasis should be on sectors that align with India’s comparative advantages and global needs.

Correct Past Mistakes: India needs to recognize and correct past errors in abandoning planning for industrial growth and misjudging the role of industrial policy in a globalised economy.

Address Persisting Inequalities: Tackling enduring inequalities and ensuring broader social development are essential for leveraging the nation’s full potential in technology and industry.