Relevance: Science & Technology, Health, Ethics (GS-3) • Source: The Hindu; U.S. BRAIN Initiative; China Brain Project

Rapid advances in neuroscience and computing have pushed neurotechnology and brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) to the forefront of global research, raising both medical opportunities and ethical debates.

What is Neurotechnology?

Neurotechnology uses mechanical, digital, and computing tools to communicate with the brain. 

• It can record, interpret, stimulate, or modulate neural activity. 
• It lies at the intersection of biotechnology, engineering, artificial intelligence, and cognitive science.

Brain–Computer Interface (BCI) — Basic Working

A BCI captures electrical or neural signals via non-invasive sensors (EEG) or implanted electrodes, decodes them using algorithms, and converts them into digital commands. This enables control of prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, robotic arms, and targeted neural stimulation for rehabilitation.

Need & Applications

India faces a large neurological disease burden—strokes, spinal injuries, and Parkinson’s disease are major contributors to disability. BCIs offer:

• Assistive mobility for paralysed patients
  
• Precision rehabilitation
  
• Diagnostic insights into cognitive disorders
  
• Future possibilities in communication for those with severe motor impairment
  

Where Does India Stand? (and where top countries stand)

India:

• Strong research emerging at IIT Kanpur, IISc, and National Brain Research Centre.
  
• Startups exploring neuroscience applications.
  
• Key gaps: lack of specialised regulation, limited funding, data governance concerns, and low public awareness.
  

Global Leaders:

• United States: World leader; NIH’s BRAIN Initiative leads advanced BCI trials, including prosthetic-enabled movement restoration.
  
• China: China Brain Project (2016–2030) focuses on cognition, brain-inspired artificial intelligence, and neurological disorder treatment.
  
• European Union & Chile: Pioneers in BCI regulation and ethical frameworks.
  

India vs. Leaders: India has strong scientific foundations but lags in scale of investment, advanced clinical trials, and regulatory readiness—all crucial for safe and inclusive neurotechnology adoption.

Q. Which of the following best describes a Brain–Computer Interface?

1. It converts neural activity into machine-readable commands.
   
2. It always requires surgical implantation.
   
3. It can be used for therapeutic, assistive, and research purposes.
   

Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3