NITI Aayog Convenes Fifth Consultative Meeting on Research and Development Reforms in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Aug 14 (KNN) NITI Aayog organised its Fifth Consultative Meeting on ‘Ease of Doing Research & Development (R&D)’ at Science City, Ahmedabad on August 12-13, 2025, in collaboration with the Gujarat Council of Science and Technology (GUJCOST). 

The two-day event brought together more than 110 participants, including heads of academic institutions, research organisations, and senior policymakers, to discuss strategies for strengthening India's research and innovation landscape.

The meeting's primary objectives centered on building consensus to reduce procedural barriers, improve access to knowledge resources, enhance institutional competitiveness, increase emphasis on translational research, and create a more conducive environment for research and development activities across the country.

Ms. P. Bharathi, IAS, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Gujarat, reaffirmed the state government's commitment to developing a robust research ecosystem in alignment with the Prime Minister's vision of Viksit Bharat.

Dr. Nilesh Desai, Director of the Space Applications Centre, ISRO, announced plans for a 12-day space science outreach program to commemorate National Space Day while highlighting the importance of creating a streamlined research and development environment. 

The keynote presentation was delivered by Dr. R.A. Mashelkar, former Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), who provided an assessment of India's current R&D landscape, identified critical gaps, and proposed actionable strategies for advancement.

Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog, concluded the meeting with his closing address on the second day, stressing the urgent need to transform India's research institutions into globally competitive entities. 

He advocated for institutional benchmarking, simplification of compliance procedures, and stronger partnerships between academia and industry to foster a high-impact research culture. 

Participants underscored the need for coordinated efforts and translational research approaches to unlock India's full potential in research and innovation.

The meeting reinforced NITI Aayog's ongoing commitment to developing a globally competitive, innovation-driven research ecosystem. 

The insights and recommendations generated from the consultations will contribute to the formulation of a national strategy aimed at improving the ease of conducting R&D in India, with the ultimate goal of positioning the country as a more attractive destination for researchers, innovators, and international collaborative partnerships.

(KNN Bureau)