India's R&D punches above its weight, but grant delays and red tape hold back researchers

India is an innovation 'overperformer' but its research systems lag behind. Improving 'ease of doing R&D' is crucial. This requires faster grants, simplified procurement, and greater institutional autonomy. Strengthening academia-industry links and access to resources will boost productivity. Coordinated action is needed to translate research into tangible outcomes for societal and economic progress.