Research Contribution of major Centrally Funded Institution Systems of India

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the research output of India's centrally funded institutions from 2001 to 2020, highlighting their significant contribution to national research and suggesting policy directions for sustainable growth.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of the research volume, growth, and share of major centrally funded Indian institutions over two decades.

Findings

Centrally funded institutions account for 67.54% of India's research output.

Research output has steadily increased since 2001 with positive CAGR.

The study offers insights for policymakers to enhance research development.

Abstract

India is now among the major knowledge producers of the world, ranking among the top 5 countries in total research output, as per some recent reports. The institutional setup for Research & Development (R&D) in India comprises a diverse set of Institutions, including Universities, government departments, research laboratories, and private sector institutions etc. It may be noted that more than 45% share of India's Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) comes from the central government. In this context, this article attempts to explore the quantum of research contribution of centrally funded institutions and institution systems of India. The volume, proportionate share and growth patterns of research publications from the major centrally funded institutions, organised in 16 groups, is analysed. These institutions taken together account for 67.54% of Indian research output during 2001 to 2020. The research output of the centrally funded institutions in India has increased steadily since 2001 with a good value for CAGR. The paper presents noteworthy insights about scientific research production of India that may be useful to policymakers, researchers and science practitioners in India. It presents a case for increased activity by the state governments and private sector to further the cause of sustainable and inclusive research and development in the country.