In September 2026 I published a series of LinkedIn op‑eds analysing India’s transition from frugality to national capability across space, medical education, AI, and public procurement. The posts combined fresh government statistics with policy recommendations aimed at retaining scientific talent, modernising medical‑seat pricing, and reforming defence acquisition.
India’s doctor‑population ratio improved to 1:778, surpassing the WHO benchmark of 1:1000.
46 of 62 deemed medical universities charge Rs 1 crore or more for a full MBBS degree.
Government R&D spending rose to 0.84 % of GDP, amounting to ₹2.45 lakh crore, while the private sector now contributes 51.8 % of total R&D.
The starting base pay for a newly recruited ISRO scientist (and a probationary IAS officer) is ₹56,100 per month.
The sixth Positive Indigenisation List names 405 parts to be purchased between Dec 2026 and Dec 2032.