The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with the Ministry of Science and Technology recently unveiled an Industry-University Index. With a focus on analyzing the input-output relationship between the educational sector, specifically Universities, and industries, the index indicates a moderate level of industry linkages in India. The overall score for the nation stands at 4.7 out of 10. While states like Karnataka, Kerala, and Gujarat showcase strong University-Industry Linkages (UILs), unfortunately, most northeastern states along with larger states such as West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar lag behind.
Performance of States in University-Industry Linkages
In terms of UILs, Karnataka emerged as the top performer with a score of 7.8, followed by Kerala and Gujarat scoring 7.3 and 6.7 respectively. This data clearly emphasizes states with better UILs have high potential in fostering growth, innovation, and job creation in various sectors.
However, the scenario is not as positive across the entire country. Northeastern states and some of the larger states like West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar are performing poorly in maintaining effective university-industry ties.
Sectors Identified for Improved Industry Linkage
The survey recognizes 10 sectors that could significantly benefit from improved industry linkage. These include agro and food processing, textiles, IT and IT-enabled services, energy, cement, pharmaceuticals, and automotive sectors. Strengthening these sectors would involve measures such as capacity building, investing in research and development, and fostering stronger ties between universities and industries.
The Bayh Dole Act and its Relevance
An essential highlight of the report was the emphasis on the Bayh Dole Act – a US law from the 1980s which has been identified as a model for strengthening university-industry linkages. The Act, officially known as the Patent and Trademark Act Amendments of 1980, established a new policy for granting patents in the United States. This act has enabled universities and other institutions to efficiently transfer valuable research outcomes to startups and established firms.
Table: Key Facts about the Bayh-Dole Act and PUPFIP Bill
| Element | Bayh-Dole Act | PUPFIP Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Initiation | 1980 | 2008 |
| Country of Origin | United States | India |
| Purpose | Official policy for patent grants, enabling efficient transfer of research from universities to businesses | Incentives for creating and commercializing public-funded research |
Challenges and Way Forward for UILs in India
Currently, India is in the initial stages of developing strong linkages between universities and industries. One significant hurdle that needs to be overcome is the lack of a clear policy to strengthen these relationships. The report stresses on the need to revive the Protection and Utilization of Public-Funded Intellectual Property (PUPFIP) Bill. This bill was drafted on the lines of the Bayh Dole Act and was initially introduced in Parliament in 2008 but later withdrawn.
The PUPFIP Bill aims to incentivize the creation and commercialization of intellectual property funded by the public. It stipulates that creators of such intellectual property are required to inform their respective research institutions, which then need to disclose this information to the government within 60 days. The Bill also proposes punishments for non-compliance, including fines and recovery of grant funds. Revival and implementation of such a bill could substantially aid in boosting industry-university linkages and fostering a conducive environment for innovation in India.
