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Indian states should take science and technology-related research to local level and promote research and innovation as per their local needs, Prime Minister Narender Modi said on Saturday (September 10). 

Addressing the Centre-State Science Conclave in Ahmedabad, Modi said that states should promote innovation by creating more scientific institutions and simplifying the research processes.

“Today, when India is moving towards leading the fourth industrial revolution, the role of India’s science and people related to this field is very important. In such a situation, the responsibility of people in administration and policy making increases significantly,” he said.

The prime minister advised that states should set up more innovation labs in high schools and frame a modern policy to shore up science, innovation and technology. “As governments, we have to more and more cooperate and collaborate with our scientists, this will create an atmosphere of scientific modernity,” he added. 

Highlighting youth’s participation in the science and tech field, the PM said, “The inclination for science, technology and innovation is in the DNA of our young generation. We need to support this young generation with full strength.” 

He also talked about a slew of initiatives such as Space Mission, National Supercomputing Mission, Semiconductor Mission, Mission Hydrogen, and drone technology, among others, that have stimulated entrepreneurial spirits in the country’s youth.

Speaking further about the promotion of science and technology, the PM said that the Indian government has made substantial investments in the field since 2014. Consequently, India’s position in the Global Innovation Index has improved to 46th rank from 81th position in 2015.

The prime minister also asked the states to conduct promotion events to shore up science and innovation at the grassroots level. He further suggested that the science ministers of every state should come up with good practices and aspects of their science curriculum. 

“We also have to take our science-related institutions out of the state of silos for optimum utilisation of scientific institutions and expertise,” Modi added. 

The PM further said that state governments should take full advantage of the ability and expertise of national-level institutes and laboratories of the country.

Modi also noted that India now has a very vibrant startup ecosystem and there is a climate of innovation in the country. 

India currently has over 73K recognised startups, according to the The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Most of these startups are based in tier-2, 3 cities of the country. The country is currently home to 107 unicorns, with online pharmacy Tata 1mg being the latest addition to the coveted club.