Is Building Inclusive Scientific Ecosystems a Challenge and Necessity in India?
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Synopsis
In a compelling discussion led by Prof. Ajay Sood, the need for inclusive scientific ecosystems in India is highlighted as both a challenge and a vital necessity. This initiative is essential for fostering innovation and equitable research outcomes in a diverse socio-economic landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Inclusivity in STEMM is essential for innovation and equitable research outcomes.
- India's unique demographic and socio-economic context poses challenges for scientific inclusivity.
- The inclusivity-STEMM-SARF framework provides a structured method for assessment and improvement.
- Global best practices must be adapted to local needs for effective implementation.
- Institutional excellence is the goal of the inclusivity framework, beyond mere representation.
New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) Creating inclusive scientific ecosystems is both a challenge and an essential requirement in India, given its demographic variety and socio-economic intricacies, remarked Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) Prof. Ajay Sood.
He addressed a high-level gathering in the capital to deliberate on the implementation of the Self-Assessment and Reporting Framework focused on inclusivity in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (inclusivity-STEMM-SARF).
Prof. Sood emphasized the critical need for a STEMM ecosystem that addresses the complex gaps surrounding inclusivity.
“Inclusivity in STEMM is not merely a moral duty; it is also a scientific and developmental necessity. Varied perspectives enhance innovation, cultivate more pertinent research, and ensure equitable results,” he stated.
“In the context of India, with its demographic diversity and socio-economic challenges, creating inclusive scientific ecosystems is both a challenge and a necessity,” he continued.
The framework encompasses not only gender equity but also vital aspects like socio-economic, linguistic, and epistemic diversity, while also addressing foundational principles such as just, ethical, and open science.
“Although the principles of inclusivity have global recognition, their application is inconsistent, differing by country, sector, and discipline. India’s unique socio-cultural landscape necessitates a more intentional and locally grounded model of inclusivity in STEMM,” explained Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at the Office of the PSA.
Dr. Maini further highlighted the importance of a structured, integrated, and measurable strategy, enabling institutions to self-assess, benchmark their progress, and identify gaps. This was the catalyst for the development of the inclusivity-STEMM-SARF.
Recognizing the distinctive traits of India’s STEMM landscape, the framework diverges from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ model. It incorporates global best practices while adapting them to India's specific requirements through both conceptual and contextual comprehension.
Other specialists stressed the need for a structured capacity-building program around the proposed framework and integrating it within the governance framework.
They underscored that the framework for inclusivity in the STEMM ecosystem transcends mere representation, aspiring to promote institutional excellence.
Point of View
The call for inclusive scientific ecosystems emerges as an urgent necessity. This initiative, as highlighted by experts, aims not only to address representation but also to enhance institutional excellence, ultimately fostering a more equitable research environment.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of inclusivity in STEMM?
Inclusivity in STEMM is crucial for driving innovation, ensuring relevant research, and achieving equitable outcomes. Diverse perspectives lead to more comprehensive solutions and advancements.
How does India's demographic diversity affect scientific ecosystems?
India's demographic diversity presents unique challenges and opportunities in building scientific ecosystems, necessitating tailored models of inclusivity that consider socio-economic, linguistic, and epistemic diversity.
What is the inclusivity-STEMM-SARF framework?
The inclusivity-STEMM-SARF framework is a structured approach designed to help institutions assess their inclusivity efforts, benchmark progress, and identify gaps, ensuring a more effective implementation of inclusivity principles.
Who is Dr. Parvinder Maini?
Dr. Parvinder Maini is the Scientific Secretary at the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser, advocating for a locally rooted model of inclusivity in India's STEMM landscape.
Why is a one-size-fits-all approach ineffective?
A one-size-fits-all approach fails to address the unique socio-cultural contexts of different regions, making it essential to develop frameworks that are adaptable and rooted in local realities.
