Socio-ethical issues and nanotechnology development: Perspectives from India

Abstract

Ethical issues arise when the technology is developed with inadequate information about right/wrong outcomes and the costs for future generations.. In the context of nanotechnology in developing countries a range of socio-ethical issues pertaining to - benefits vs. risks, equity and access to technology, public engagement and democratic participation, the need for involvement of various stakeholders from developing countries - needs to be addressed. This paper explores socio-ethical issues associated with nanotechnology development in India. First, it provides nanotechnology in India by describing investment climate, priority areas, institutions and issues. Second, reflections on socio-ethical issues in nanotechnology are drawn from a survey across various scientific institutions of India. Third, it addresses the relevance of the precautionary principle in practice for the regulation of nanotechnology in India. Fourth, it examines how the public should be engaged in cooperation with government and industry and finally makes suggestions of how to go about responsible nanotechnology governance in India.