That the Indian scientists can compete with the world’s best is an acknowledged fact. But this eminence is despite the environment in which they work, not because of it. One can well imagine what they could have achieved had they not been fighting against odds. Now even the Prime Minister has conceded this ugly fact. Speaking at Thiruvananthapuram after presenting the Panambilli Govinda Menon award to former ISRO chairman G Madhavan Nair on Sunday, Dr Manmohan Singh regretted that red tape, political interference and lack of recognition of good work contributed to a regression in Indian science in some sectors. He has reflected the frustration of many a scientist. In fact, the notorious brain drain is a direct consequence of this dissatisfaction.
Dr Manmohan Singh has exhorted scientific institutions to introspect and put in place mechanisms for greater autonomy. That can indeed ease the problem but only at in-house level. What is needed is insulating the science sector from bureaucratic meddling. Nosey politicians and babus have tried to corner power and influence in every sector of life, including science. There can be a turnaround only if his government plays a proactive role in giving autonomy to the scientific community. The way some Indian scientists made good after going overseas should have set the alarm bells ringing but it did not. While it is desirable to get the sons of the soil back to their country, what is all the more necessary is to address the genuine grievances of those who have been trudging on right here all these years. The atmosphere of favouritism has kept them from giving off their best. Letting in some sunshine can produce dramatic results. Indeed, the imbalance can be set right by encouraging women to join the scientific domain. But whether it is men or women, it is necessary to nurture them all with a friendly, respectful approach. Only then can original, useful research take place.
Source: The Tribune, Chandigarh, India.
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