Open Science: Challenges, Possible Solutions and the Way Forward

Abstract

Everyone agrees that scientific communication should be free for all. Unfortunately, accessing publications from many reputed journals comes at a high cost�a cost that many researchers and institutions cannot afford. Although,�open-access publication model�is considered by many as a possible route to ensure that�science�is free for all; however, it is fraught with its own challenges. This review attempts at exploring the possibilities of keeping�science�accessible. Firstly, we re-visit the meaning of �open�science� as a comprehensive concept which includes�open�source, data, access, resources, peer review etc. and not merely�open�access publication model. Next, we have discussed the global initiatives towards�open�access�the Budapest�Open�Access Initiative, Bethesda Statement on�Open�Access Publishing, Berlin Declaration on�Open�Access to Knowledge in the�Sciences�and Humanities, cOAlition S and its Plan S initiative, UNESCO Recommendation on Open Science and the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA). Following this we have included the�various open�access initiatives from India. In the next part, we have focused on problems with dissemination of�scientific�outcomes and the challenges associated with existing publication models. Finally, we explore the possible solutions to the existing challenges, which include promotion of pre-print servers and other ideas that we have detailed in the manuscript. � 2022, Indian National Science Academy.