Next-Generation Particle Accelerators for Frontline Research and Wide-ranging Applications in India - How to Realize Them?

Several modern accelerator facilities have been set up in India for basic and applied research during the past 5 decades. Indian scientists have been able to carry out excellent accelerator-based research at these as well as international facilities. Applications of accelerators in healthcare and industry have also grown in recent years. There is a strong realization now, at all levels, that a quantum jump needs to be given to the field of accelerator science and technology in India to fulfil the aspirations of the research community to be at par internationally in our areas of strength. Applications in industry and healthcare also have to grow substantially to benefit the common man. In this article an analysis of the methodology and logic behind the evolution of our accelerator programme has been presented. More importantly, recommendations have been given for gainfully implementing a rather ambitious programme that is proposed to be taken up in the next few decades.