New Delhi: In a pointed critique that has sent ripples through the bureaucratic community, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh has blamed state governments and civil servants for hindering India’s progress on innovation.
Speaking at the launch of NITI Aayog’s new report “Pathways to Progress: Analysis and Insights into India’s Innovation Story”, the minister did not hold back in criticizing what he called the systemic apathy toward scientific advancement.
States Assign ‘Reluctant Secretaries’ to Science Departments: Singh
Calling out what he described as a pattern of indifference, Mr Singh said 24 out of 28 states treat their science and technology departments as “dumping grounds” for officers, assigning them to unwilling or reluctant secretaries—many of whom have little interest in or understanding of scientific innovation.
“No senior IAS officer wants to take charge of science departments in the states. Innovation is not a priority, and these postings are often considered punishment,” Singh said, sparking unease in administrative circles.
His statement has reignited a long-standing debate on the role of bureaucracy and political will in fostering innovation ecosystems in India.
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Top Bureaucrats React: ‘Blame Misplaced Without Funding Support’
While Singh’s remarks drew no public rebuttal from top civil servants, quiet but sharp reactions have emerged behind the scenes. Several senior bureaucrats expressed concern that the minister’s critique ignored structural realities, particularly the chronic underfunding of India’s science and innovation sectors.
India’s total expenditure on R&D has remained stagnant at 0.6–0.7% of GDP over the past several years—far below global standards:
- China: 2.4%
- USA: 3.5%
- Israel: 5.4%
Officials argue that without adequate resources, expecting state-level officers to drive innovation is “unrealistic and unfair.”
“Innovation cannot be driven on goodwill alone. Without money, manpower, and mission-mode support, how can states be held responsible?” said a senior IAS officer on condition of anonymity.
‘Reluctance’ Rooted in Structural Gaps, Not Attitude Alone
Some officers defended their colleagues’ lack of enthusiasm for science postings, noting that many departments operate with bare minimum staff and outdated infrastructure, and no tangible incentive for officers to choose or excel in those roles.
Others pointed to the lack of institutional mechanisms to coordinate between the central government’s innovation goals and state-level implementation capacities.
“If science and technology are a national priority, why is central R&D spending so low? Why aren’t state departments empowered with special budgets or technology cells?” one official asked.
A Wake-Up Call or a Missed Opportunity?
While Singh’s comments were intended to stir urgency, experts say they risk alienating stakeholders who are crucial to actual implementation. Analysts believe the remarks could lead to a broader conversation—but only if the Union Government complements rhetoric with renewed funding, training programs, and accountability frameworks.
Policy watchers say innovation leadership must come from the top and trickle down—not the other way around.
