Overview
The GERD in India has risen steadily, reaching ₹244,767.81 crore in 2023‑24, which is 0.84% of GDP. The share of the DST shows a shift from government‑dominated spending to greater private‑sector participation.
Key Developments
- Launch of a RDI Fund to boost private R&D.
- Creation of the ANRF to mobilise additional non‑government resources.
- National missions such as the National Quantum Mission (Rs 6,003.65 crore), India Semiconductor Mission (Rs 76,000 crore), and the National Supercomputing Mission receive dedicated outlays.
- Promotion of PPPs and technology hubs under the quantum and cyber‑physical systems missions.
- Implementation of innovation schemes like NIDHI, BIRAC, iDEX and TIDE 2.0.
Important Facts (2019‑24)
- GERD grew from ₹132,567.01 crore (0.66% of GDP) in 2019‑20 to ₹244,767.81 crore (0.84% of GDP) in 2023‑24.
- Government sector’s share fell from 66.2% to 48.2%; private sector rose from 33.8% to 51.8%.
- Higher education institutions contributed about 12‑13% of total R&D in recent years, while public sector enterprises stayed around 4%.
- Sector‑wise spending in 2023‑24: Central sector ₹85,711.50 crore, State sector ₹9,796.10 crore, Private sector ₹118,351.68 crore, Higher‑education sector ₹30,908.53 crore.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the trajectory of GERD helps answer questions on India’s innovation ecosystem, economic growth, and global competitiveness (GS3). The shift toward private funding reflects policy emphasis on PPPs and aligns with the “Make in India” narrative. Knowledge of missions like the National Quantum Mission and bodies such as ANRF is useful for questions on science‑technology policy and budget allocations (GS3, GS2). The data also illustrate inter‑sectoral collaboration, a theme in governance and development studies (GS4).
Way Forward
- Maintain a steady rise of GERD to at least 1% of GDP by 2030 through sustained budgetary support.
- Deepen PPPs by creating more technology parks and joint labs.
- Strengthen the role of ANRF as a catalyst for high‑risk, high‑reward research.
- Encourage higher‑education institutions to increase industry‑linked research, aiming for >15% contribution.
- Monitor impact of the RDI Fund and adjust policy based on outcomes.