Science, Innovation Are Our DNA: Anupam Jaiswal, President, South Asia, Dupont
Excerpts
The overall R&D spend in India is less than 1 per cent of the GDP. How do you think India can become an innovation-led economy?
Innovation is essentially about following the mantra of ‘no one size fits all’. Indian jugaad (quick fixes) implies that the innovation spirit already exists but they are being used to resolve some quick problems. This needs channelising into right direction to create a formal ecosystem to help address the larger and more long-term R&D needs. A series of initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India and Innovate India have given a push to innovation. Looking ahead, robust IP protection laws and incentivising are key for the private sector and government to pave the way for an innovation-led economy.
What are the megatrends globally and in India?
India being a connected economy, the megatrends here are similar such as — advanced mobility, health & wellness, connectivity and environmental protection. In the mobility sector, with a move towards electrification, light-weighting for enhancing the efficiency would be crucial. In the health & wellness sector the trend is moving from sick-care to preventive-care. In telecom, the transition to 5G will require innovative solutions, as it is all about high-speeds, low-latency and supporting greater user density. With a growing focus on environmental protection and sustainability, companies globally are gearing up to meaningful change for society and the environment. In all these segments, material science would play a crucial role in developing the advanced solutions and technologies required to meet the evolving needs.
Do you think the automobile sector, one of the biggest polluters but also the biggest employment generator, can see some long-term sustainable solution?
The good news is that both automakers and government are embracing sustainable mobility, lower emissions and increased fuel-efficiency. Light weighting, alternative fuel sources, electrification and improved engines will continue to be long-term sustainable goals.
Do you see India playing a big role in supporting global R&D activities?
India’s growing need for infrastructure, food, safe water, and healthcare present unprecedented challenges. However, these challenges provide opportunities too, because R&D and innovation are intrinsic to mobility and healthcare sectors which are growing at rapid pace. Additionally, India as a testing ground can support global R&D.
What are offerings that DuPont has for Indian markets? What have you done personally to bring in the mindset change amongst the DuPont employees to adapt to the megatrends?
Advanced mobility — Our AHEAD™ (Accelerating Hybrid-Electric Autonomous Driving) initiative offers automotive industry partners a one-stop solution for applications in electrification, autonomy, connectivity and the supporting infrastructure space.
Environmental protection — As a global leader in water technologies, we offer a range of innovative solutions and technologies to address India’s water challenges.
Connectivity — We offer innovative materials for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet of things and 5G wireless networks.
Science and innovation are our DNA and imbedded in our culture and what we do daily. We want to boldly innovate for customers on a global scale, so, we encourage bold thinkers to help us compete on that scale.
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