Government, University and Industry Relations

Abstract

The triple helix is considered an important concept because it not only advocates partnerships among government, industry and university/public research institutions, but it also claims (explicitly or implicitly) to provide strategy for innovation. The present study was undertaken in 2001 to understand the relevance of triple helix in the context of biotechnology in the National Capital Region of Delhi in India. The empirical research conducted through questionnaire and interviews was restricted to scientists from public sector research and academia. The analysis based on fieldwork data was also supported by secondary sources of information. The empirical findings reveal that bilateral linkages and partnerships—mostly between government and public sector research institutions, including universities—seem to be more relevant and meaningful than tripartite relationships. Even though scientists now do seem to be positively oriented to commercialisation of knowledge and accord high importance to it, they continue to assign equally high importance to publications compared to patenting. Our study reveals that scientists in universities and national research institutions lack adequate and effective institutional and organisational framework and mechanisms that foster commercialisation of knowledge. In conclusion, the study attempts to underscore some policy measures that will catalyse triple helix-based partnerships in context of biotechnology sector in India.