Fostering scientific excellence in Indian universities: analyzing the impact and future prospects of DST’s PURSE program

The "Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE)" program provide financial support to persuade top-tier research facilities in universities. The program aims to improve research infrastructure, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and boost universities scientific output. This paper explores PURSE's strategic approach to fostering research excellence in Indian universities, highlighting its significant contribution to enhance scientific capabilities and to facilitate progress in science and technology, resulting in substantial improvements in R&D outcomes. Key metrics such as average publications per year, H-index, I-10 index, and DST-acknowledged publications were analyzed before and after the implementation of PURSE support. The PURSE program has significantly improved university rankings, boosted research output, and fostered innovation within universities, thereby augmenting India's global competitiveness and undertaking societal issues. The program's long-term benefits include knowledge creation, economic development, and societal well-being. Future funding agencies can use this study's findings to design research schemes for further scientific advancement.