Yes, it is true. A career as a scientist no more lures or attracts young people these days. They would rather become a software engineer, doctor, manager, civil servant or a businessman than take the hard way to become a scientist. After all, it is no joke to become a scientist. It takes years of hard labour and a number of degrees to become a scientist of some value. You will require graduation, postgraduation and then perhaps a PhD to become a scientist. The subjects won't be interesting either. The same old physics or chemistry that you so much detested during high school days. Whereas, it is a lot easier to become a software engineer. Moreover, money is also good as an engineer or doctor, if you can establish yourself. On the other hand, as a scientist, you will be mostly employed in a government organisation, where the remuneration may not be too attractive or the scope for growth could be less and time-bound irrespective of your calibre. Yes, some do get attracted to organisations like NASA in the west and head for higher studies there, but they are too few to make a difference. Most prefer an IT job than taking the hassle of being a scientist. Alas, the best brains these days are taking up careers in IT or medicine, neglecting research and pure science.
Patience and perseverance pays
