University and innovation systems: The case of India

Datta, Surja; Surja, Datta; Saad, Mohammed

Abstract

This paper looks into the evolution of the innovation system in India and the role of the universities in the light of various system theories of innovation. Its passive role in the Indian innovation system notwithstanding, there is evidence to show that the university system has contributed to the innovative capacity of India over the years, albeit in ways that are not reflected through conventional measures of innovation. There are many hurdles that constrain the university system in India from playing a more effective role in the national innovation system. This paper points to the path-dependent issues that have arisen during the evolution of the university system over 150 years as the major factors which prevent the sector from being actively involved in the innovation processes within the country. The paper concludes with some suggestions as to how these problems could be mitigated and the active role of the university system in innovation restored.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Feb 1, 2011
• Journal: Science and Public Policy
• Print ISSN: 0302-3427
• Electronic ISSN: 1471-5430
• Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 38
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 7-17
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3152/030234211X12834251302526
• Keywords: university systems, innovation systems, India, university-industry relationship, knowledge exchange, developing countries
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/965764
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.3152/030234211X12834251302526