We estimate that there are just over 400 ‘core’, senior innovation policymakers working at a national level in India.[1] The staff structure across departments varies, depending on whether they are focused on scientific innovation or not. Those that are, tend to be career scientists or hold technical degrees. Otherwise they are usually career bureaucrats.

These policymakers are riding a wave of momentum. There is considerable awareness among policymakers in general about the increasingly important role of innovation across all sectors in government. There is also a growing recognition that the country needs to look beyond the traditional ways of managing and implementing policy, in order to effectively support innovation programmes and build sustainable ecosystems.

The role of these individuals is pivotal. They do not feel that the current environment sufficiently fosters innovation within government - even though the areas in which they work are ostensibly focused on the development of innovation within the Indian economy and society. At the moment they feel too much hinges on the level of motivation of individual bureaucrats. In a few cases, innovation is driven by a motivated political leader or unit.

For example, in Maharashtra, policymakers are able to act as ‘entrepreneurs’, working outside the confines of hierarchical government structures, yet retain their influence and standing. Indeed, as we outline further on, innovation in India is too reliant on these individuals driving things forward.