Chris Gopalakrishnan, co-founder of Infosys and chairman of Infosys Science Foundation, talks Hindu Before the announcement of the winners of the 14th Infosys Awards. The Infosys Awards are given annually to recognize outstanding achievements of contemporary researchers and scientists in various categories.
The COVID-19 pandemic has generated great interest in the areas of science, technology and research among the general public. Is science finally getting its due in India?
There has been a greater appreciation of science and technology after COVID. Vaccines, the ability to work remotely using the Internet, ventilators, predict virus progression, understand virus mutations, etc. are all due to advances in science and technology. The world is applauding India’s unique role in its ability to create cost-effective technology solutions. The IT services industry transitioned to work from home overnight and the impact on the global economy and business was minimal.
You have been advocating for the need to increase the level of funding in science and research in the country. However, there has been no significant increase in the level of funding. What should be done to address it?
This requires a change in culture and mindset. Indian industry is currently investing in internal R&D or reusing products that have worked elsewhere. Research is going on in education, but we can do much more. Similarly, philanthropy focuses more on helping people and causes in need of support today. Research considers finding solutions to problems in the future. There is an element of uncertainty in research because solutions are not guaranteed.
We need to convince people and businesses that supporting research deserves equal attention. Research also creates IP that can be commercialized and grow the economy rapidly.
Isn’t science and research in India confined to big cities? What to do to get Science and Research in Tier-II and Tier-III cities?
Science and research is confined to Tier-II academic and research organisations. So, it depends on where these organizations are located. Some of these are not in Tier-1 cities. Having said this, the commercialization of research takes place mainly in Tier-I cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai etc. These places are magnets for attracting venture funds and people.
What role can science play in solving climate change and other issues?
Technology and innovation play a vital role in creating new solutions to the problems facing the world. Alternative fuels and energy sources, energy efficient buildings and better energy distribution and utilization are solutions to science.
What can we expect from the 14th Infosys Awards? Is there anything new this time?
We will have to wait for the announcement of the award winners. Every year we are excited to introduce scientists and engineers who have further expanded their field by creating new knowledge and solutions. Each of them will have an impact in the future. They will inspire the new generation of students to pursue science.