GREAT Scheme

Introduction

The GREAT Scheme (Global Research Alliance in Emerging Technologies) is an initiative launched by the Government of India to foster global collaboration in cutting-edge technologies. It aims to position India as a global leader in research and innovation by promoting international partnerships in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, Semiconductor Technology, Biotechnology, and Space Science. This eBook provides an in-depth understanding of the GREAT Scheme, its objectives, significance, implementation, and relevance for UPSC aspirants.

Background & Rationale

India has been striving to enhance its research and development (R&D) ecosystem to compete globally in emerging technologies. Recognizing the need for strategic global partnerships, the Government of India launched the GREAT Scheme to facilitate knowledge exchange, joint research projects, and technology development in critical areas. The initiative aligns with India’s broader vision under policies like Atmanirbhar Bharat, Digital India, and Make in India to boost innovation and self-reliance in key sectors.

Key Reasons for Launching the GREAT Scheme:

  • Addressing India’s R&D gaps by leveraging global expertise.

  • Enhancing technological sovereignty in critical sectors.

  • Encouraging international collaboration to access advanced research facilities.

  • Strengthening academic and industrial partnerships worldwide.

  • Promoting innovation-driven economic growth.

Objectives of the GREAT Scheme

The GREAT Scheme is designed to achieve the following objectives:

  1. Foster Global Collaboration – Build partnerships with leading international research institutions, universities, and private sector companies.

  2. Accelerate Innovation – Support research in disruptive and emerging technologies.

  3. Develop High-End Infrastructure – Establish world-class research labs and innovation hubs in India.

  4. Promote Knowledge Exchange – Facilitate joint research programs, scholarships, and faculty exchange between India and partner countries.

  5. Boost Industrial Research – Encourage industries to participate in R&D through public-private partnerships (PPP).

  6. Enhance India’s Competitiveness – Strengthen India’s position in the global tech ecosystem.

Key Focus Areas of the GREAT Scheme

The scheme targets the following cutting-edge fields:

  1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

  2. Quantum Computing and Quantum Technologies

  3. Semiconductor & Chip Manufacturing

  4. Cybersecurity and Blockchain Technology

  5. Biotechnology and Genetic Research

  6. Space Technology and Satellite Communication

  7. Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies

  8. 5G & Next-Gen Communication Technologies

Implementation Mechanism

The GREAT Scheme is implemented through a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government agencies, academic institutions, industry leaders, and international research bodies.

Key Implementing Agencies:

  • Ministry of Science & Technology

  • Department of Space (DoS)

  • Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

  • Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) & National Research Centers

  • Private sector participation in R&D projects

Funding & Financial Support:

  • Government funding through grants & incentives.

  • Foreign collaborations providing joint funding.

  • Industry sponsorships to support applied research.

  • Scholarships & fellowships for Indian researchers.

Mode of Collaboration:

  • Joint Research Projects between Indian and global universities.

  • Innovation Hubs in top institutions like IITs, IISc, and NITs.

  • Global Competitions & Hackathons to encourage tech-driven startups.

  • Industry-Academia Partnerships for commercializing research outputs.

Impact of the GREAT Scheme

The GREAT Scheme is expected to bring significant benefits to India’s R&D landscape. Some of its anticipated impacts include:

Economic Impact:

  • Strengthening India’s knowledge economy.

  • Boosting high-tech industries, including semiconductors and AI startups.

  • Increasing foreign investments in India’s tech sector.

Scientific & Technological Advancements:

  • Enhancing India’s research output in high-priority fields.

  • Enabling faster adoption of new technologies.

  • Promoting the commercialization of research through startups.

Employment & Skill Development:

  • Generating high-skilled jobs in R&D.

  • Providing training and upskilling programs for researchers and engineers.

  • Encouraging brain gain by attracting Indian researchers working abroad.

Challenges in Implementation

Despite its ambitious goals, the GREAT Scheme faces several challenges:

  1. Funding Constraints – Limited budget allocations for high-end R&D.

  2. Intellectual Property (IP) Rights Issues – Managing patents and proprietary technologies in global collaborations.

  3. Brain Drain – Retaining top Indian talent in the domestic research ecosystem.

  4. Regulatory & Bureaucratic Delays – Lengthy approval processes affecting international partnerships.

  5. Technology Transfer Challenges – Ensuring effective knowledge sharing between institutions and industries.

To overcome these challenges, the government must streamline regulatory processes, ensure efficient fund allocation, and strengthen academia-industry linkages.

UPSC Relevance & Key Takeaways

For UPSC aspirants, the GREAT Scheme is relevant for multiple topics across Prelims, Mains, and Interview preparation.

UPSC Prelims:

  • Government policies related to science & technology.

  • International collaborations in research & innovation.

  • Recent developments in AI, Quantum Computing, and Biotechnology.

UPSC Mains (GS Paper 3 – Science & Technology):

  • Government initiatives for technological advancements.

  • Impact of emerging technologies on India’s economy & security.

  • Role of R&D in India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

Essay & Interview:

  • India’s Global Role in Science & Technology.

  • Opportunities & Challenges in High-End R&D.

  • Future of AI, Quantum Computing, and Space Technology in India.

Conclusion

The GREAT Scheme is a significant step towards positioning India as a global leader in research and innovation. By fostering international collaborations, developing state-of-the-art infrastructure, and promoting industry-academia partnerships, it holds the potential to revolutionize India’s tech ecosystem. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the scheme provides valuable insights into India’s scientific policies, global partnerships, and technological advancements, making it an essential topic for exam preparation.

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