India’s R&D spending crosses 0.8% of GDP for first time since 2010
India's R&D spending reached 0.83% of GDP in 2021-22, marking the first time it has crossed the 0.8% threshold since 2010. Data shows a structural shift where private industry now contributes more to national research efforts than the government.
Why it matters
Increased R&D investment is a key indicator of a nation's innovation capacity and long-term economic competitiveness.
India’s spending on research and development (R&D) surged to 0.83% of GDP in 2021-22, the first time that the country crossed the 0.8% threshold — a level last seen in 2009-10, according to newly disclosed government data
The figures also reveal a structural shift in India’s innovation landscape: private industry accounted for 45.5% of national R&D spending in 2021-22, rising further to 51.8% in 2023-24, the first time businesses have contributed more to India’s research effort than all levels of government combined.
The figures were disclosed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in response to a Lok Sabha question answered on Wednesday (July 29, 2026). They form part of the latest Research & Development Statistics 2025-26, although the full statistical report itself has not yet been publicly released.
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