Mapping the Indian nanotechnology innovation system

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to map out the Indian nanotechnology innovation system. An attempt is made to identify the dominant actors, collaborative pattern and analyse the role of and interactions between the actors and institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of frameworks such as national and international system of innovation is used to include all possible actors and institutions involved. A scientometric analysis is also carried out.

Findings

Despite a series of government interventions discernible in various programmes since the 1980s, nanotechnology-based industries are yet to emerge as a dominant sector. The health sector has emerged as one of the major contributors in terms of nanotechnology applications. There are many other challenges of safety and standards, socioeconomic, ethical and environmental concerns. Academic R&D labs are active in technology transfer.

Research limitations/implications

A scant literature is available for this sector in India and especially from the international innovation system framework to analyse the socioeconomic and risk governance issues.

Practical implications

A scant literature is available for this sector in India and especially from the international innovation system framework to analyse the socioeconomic and risk governance issues.

Originality/value

A scant literature is available for this sector in India and especially from the international innovation system framework to analyse the socioeconomic and risk governance issues.

Citation

Kumar, A. and N. Desai, P. (2014), "Mapping the Indian nanotechnology innovation system", World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development, Vol. 11 No. 1, pp. 53-65. https://doi.org/10.1108/WJSTSD-09-2013-0039