India's R&D Spending Crosses 0.8% of GDP After 15 Years

Context: India's Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) rose to 0.83% of GDP in 2021-22, crossing the 0.8% mark for the first time since 2009-10. Private industry has overtaken the government as the largest contributor to national R&D spending, accounting for 51.8% of the total by 2023-24.

2 min read

India's R&D Spending Crosses 0.8% of GDP After 15 Years

Context

New government data disclosed in the Lok Sabha shows India's R&D spending has risen structurally, with a notable shift towards private-sector-driven research, even as India's GERD-to-GDP ratio remains well below that of major scientific powers.

Key Facts

GERD rose to 0.83% of GDP in 2021-22, a level last seen in 2009-10.

Private industry's share of national R&D spending rose from 45.5% (2021-22) to 51.8% (2023-24), the first time it has exceeded combined government spending.

Data was disclosed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) as part of the Research & Development Statistics 2025-26.

India has one of the largest scientific workforces globally and ranks high in scientific publications, but its R&D-to-GDP ratio has historically trailed nations like the US, China, and South Korea.

The rising private-sector share signals growing industry confidence in innovation-led growth.

Significance for UPSC

Relevant to GS3 science and technology policy, this data reflects India's push under initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat and the National Research Foundation to boost innovation, and highlights the public-private R&D funding balance as a policy concern.

India's R&D Spending Crosses 0.8% of GDP After 15 Years