Comments on Demand for Grants (DFGs) by Ministry of Science and Technology in the Union Budget (FY 2025-26)

Advanced BiologyHigh Tech GeopoliticsEconomic Policy
Written By Shambhavi Naik

Executive Summary

This document presents the analysis of the Demand for Grants (DFGs) presented by the Ministry of Science and Technology for the fiscal year (FY2025-26). The findings show a disproportionately low spending on research expenditure relative to the total budget and under-utilisation of research budgets by the Ministry’s various departments. The document offers select recommendations on the budgets proposed by the Department of Biotechnology, and Department of Science and Technology.

Authors

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Shambhavi Naik
Shambhavi Naik

Shambhavi Naik is the Head of Research at Takshashila and is the chairperson of the Advanced Biology programme. She has a PhD in Cancer Biology. Shambhavi’s research covers India’s policies in areas of emerging technologies, with a focus on healthcare and higher education.

Sarthak Pradhan
Sarthak Pradhan

Sarthak is an Assistant Professor at the Takshashila Institution. He teaches economic reasoning and researches public finance. Before his foray into the public policy domain, he worked as an educator and a telecom engineer. He has completed Takshashila's PGP in public policy and holds a dual degree from BITS Pilani.

Shambhavi Naik
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