A conference in India has heard calls for new, science-based development indices in the run-up to the Rio+20 summit.

A report by the UN secretary-general's panel on global sustainability adds weight to calls for more science in policymaking.

A controversial science reform that gave the Venezuelan government more control over a private sector R&D tax has boosted science funding.

Colombian scientists have questioned the government's decision to give large portions of science royalties to areas with poor R&D capacity.

Pakistan's science academy hosted six scientists from its Indian counterpart this week, leading to pledges on joint research projects.

The physicist Marco Antonio Raupp will take up the position of science minister next Tuesday, replacing the career politician Aloizio Mercadante.

Asia now collectively invests slightly more than the United States in research and development, says a report.

The Egyptian revolution has led to a golden year for science with increased investment, ambitious plans and renewed public interest.

Recent scandals have exposed weaknesses in India's ability to police its own doctors as they participate in international drug trials.

Ecuador is offering 2,000 scholarships to its undergraduates and graduates to study science in foreign countries.

The UN has published its draft negotiating document, 'The Future We Want', ahead of the Rio+20 summit in June.

Peru has unveiled an ambitious innovation project to improve collaboration between the public and private sectors, and boost science.

Uganda's president has declared, again, that he will raise scientists' pay to "international standards".

Low participation in a Chilean programme to insert researchers into the production sector has been blamed on mistrust between scientists and entrepreneurs.

A conference has called for new agricultural universities in East and Central Africa with a focus on innovation.

Argentinean scientists have criticised the redistribution of fellowships, a move aimed at rewarding productivity and boosting remote regions.

Botswana is awaiting parliamentary approval next month of two science and technology bodies.

Indian premier Manmohan Singh wants the country’s scientists to follow policy using science and technology to push inclusive growth.

South Asian countries should drop political agendas in favour of collaboration in sustainable development research, experts say.

Scientists and officials in Senegal are working on a science policy that will join up research efforts to meet development needs.