In a significant move aimed at streamlining and bolstering the science and technology landscape in India, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the continuation of three existing umbrella schemes under a unified central sector scheme named ‘Vigyan Dhara’.
This comprehensive initiative, led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), is set to run through the 15th Finance Commission period from 2021-22 to 2025-26, with an allocated budget of Rs. 10,579.84 crore.
WHAT IS VIGYAN DHARA?
The ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme consolidates three major components: Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building, Research and Development, and Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment.
The merger of these schemes is designed to enhance efficiency in fund utilisation and foster synchronisation among the various sub-schemes and programs.
The overarching goal of ‘Vigyan Dhara’ is to promote capacity building in science and technology, advance research and innovation, and accelerate technology development, thereby strengthening the country’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem.
HOW WILL IT AID R&D?
A key aspect of the ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme is the strengthening of S&T infrastructure across India. This will be achieved by fostering well-equipped research and development (R&D) laboratories within academic institutions.
The scheme emphasises promoting research in areas such as basic research with access to international mega facilities, translational research in sustainable energy and water, and collaborative research through international bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
Additionally, ‘Vigyan Dhara’ aims to build a robust pool of human resources to enhance the science and technology landscape, thereby expanding the country’s R&D base.
Special focus will be given to increasing the participation of women in the field of Science and Technology, with an emphasis on achieving gender parity in the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) sectors.
The scheme aligns with the 5-year goals of DST and supports the government’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
It will also align its research and development component with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), ensuring that its initiatives meet global standards while aligning with national priorities.
The approval of ‘Vigyan Dhara’ marks a strategic step towards fostering innovation and collaboration between academia, government, and industry, thereby propelling India towards a more advanced and inclusive science, technology and innovation ecosystem.
link