Science Diplomacy for South Asian Countries: Insights and Breakthroughs

This book explores India's science diplomacy with neighboring countries, highlighting its role in addressing global climate change and sustainable development challenges. It provides insights into international governance models, mega-science projects, and science diplomacy's potential for breakthroughs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book explores the emerging role of science diplomacy as a powerful governance tool in international cooperation. It delves into India's extensive scientific collaboration with a diverse range of countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and more. The book provides a detailed account of India's science policy and science diplomacy endeavors, highlighting key initiatives and strategies. It introduces readers to the concepts and contours of science diplomacy, drawing upon international examples to illustrate its practical applications. Moreover, the book offers insightful perspectives on international governance models, mega-science projects, and the crucial role of science diplomacy in addressing global climate change and sustainable development challenges. Serving as a valuable resource, this book empowers scientists, diplomats, policymakers, government officials, and non-government institutions to advance India's science diplomacy efforts with its neighboring countries. By fostering knowledge exchange, collaboration, and mutual understanding, it contributes to the promotion of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development on a global scale.

Introduction:
Science diplomacy holds immense potential as a transformative governance tool in the realm of international cooperation. In recent years, India has recognized the significance of leveraging its scientific expertise and resources to foster collaboration and address global challenges. This book aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of India's science diplomacy outlook, focusing on its current collaboration with various countries and its broader science policy and diplomacy endeavors.

India's Scientific Collaboration with Neighboring Countries:
India's scientific collaboration with its neighboring countries is a testament to its commitment to fostering peace, prosperity, and sustainable development. The country has established strong partnerships with Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, engaging in a wide range of scientific projects and initiatives. These collaborations encompass areas such as agriculture, health, education, renewable energy, and space research. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and technology, India aims to contribute to the well-being of its neighbors and promote regional cooperation.

Science Policy and Science Diplomacy in India:
India's science policy is guided by the vision of "Science for Society," which emphasizes the application of scientific knowledge to address societal challenges and improve the quality of life. The government has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer. These include funding programs, research institutions, and international collaborations. India's science diplomacy efforts are also shaped by its commitment to global governance and sustainable development. The country has actively participated in international forums, such as the United Nations, to advocate for science-based solutions to global problems. It has also collaborated with international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, to address health-related challenges and promote public health.

Concepts and Contours of Science Diplomacy:
Science diplomacy encompasses a wide range of concepts and practices aimed at promoting international cooperation and understanding. It involves the exchange of scientific knowledge, expertise, and technology between countries, as well as the collaboration on research projects and policy initiatives. One of the key aspects of science diplomacy is the recognition of the importance of multilateralism and the need to work together to address global challenges. Mega-science projects, such as the International Space Station, have been instrumental in promoting international cooperation and fostering scientific collaboration. These projects bring together scientists from different countries, enabling them to work together on cutting-edge research and achieve shared goals.

Role of Science Diplomacy in Addressing Global Climate Change and Sustainable Development Challenges:
Science diplomacy plays a crucial role in addressing global climate change and sustainable development challenges. By promoting the exchange of knowledge and technology, countries can work together to develop innovative solutions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. For instance, India has been actively involved in international climate negotiations, advocating for the adoption of renewable energy sources and promoting sustainable development practices. Through its science diplomacy efforts, India has also collaborated with other countries to address issues such as air pollution, deforestation, and water scarcity, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the emerging role of science diplomacy as a powerful governance tool in international cooperation. It showcases India's extensive scientific collaboration with neighboring countries and its broader science policy and diplomacy endeavors. By introducing concepts and contours of science diplomacy, the book offers valuable perspectives on international governance models, mega-science projects, and the role of science diplomacy in addressing global climate change and sustainable development challenges. This resource is particularly valuable for scientists, diplomats, policymakers, government officials, and non-government institutions interested in science and diplomacy. Through knowledge exchange, collaboration, and mutual understanding, India can further strengthen its science diplomacy efforts and contribute to the promotion of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development on a global scale.

Weight: 367g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811630279
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021