Vigyan Dhara: India Unveils Comprehensive Scheme to Boost S&T Ecosystem

SciFocus/Aug 29, 2024 -- In a significant move to bolster the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem in India, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the launch of the unified scheme ‘Vigyan Dhara.’ Spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), this comprehensive initiative merges three major umbrella schemes, aiming to drive research, innovation, and capacity building across the nation.

Highlights:

- Five Pillars of Vigyan Dhara:

- Internships & Fellowships: Opportunities for Class 11-12 students and fellowships for UG, PG, PhD, and Postdoctoral research to cultivate future scientists.

- International Collaboration: Partnerships in cutting-edge research, fostering global cooperation and knowledge exchange.

- Joint Research Projects & Fellowships: Collaborative efforts across institutions and countries to tackle pressing scientific challenges.

- Societal Focus: Emphasis on research areas affecting society, such as climate change, ensuring that scientific advancements address real-world issues.

- Product Development: Innovation in crucial sectors like clean energy, promoting sustainable technologies and practices.

- Three Core Components:

- S&T Capacity Building: Strengthening institutions and human resources to elevate India's scientific capabilities.

- Research & Development: Prioritizing basic and translational research with access to global mega facilities and enhancing India's R&D landscape.

- Innovation & Technology Deployment: Encouraging the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies, driving innovation at all levels—from schools to industries.

- Strategic Focus:

With an allocated budget of Rs. 10,579.84 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021-2026), Vigyan Dhara is poised to enhance efficiency, optimize fund utilization, and synchronize efforts across various scientific initiatives.

- Gender Parity in S&T:

The scheme aims to increase the participation of women in science and technology, promoting gender equality within the STI sector.

- Vision for Viksit Bharat 2047:

Vigyan Dhara aligns with India's long-term vision of becoming a fully developed nation by 2047, supporting the goals of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and national priorities.

Vigyan Dhara is a groundbreaking initiative that unifies and strengthens India's scientific infrastructure, fostering innovation, research, and capacity building across the country. By focusing on critical areas such as climate change, clean energy, and international collaboration, this scheme will not only drive scientific advancement but also contribute to India’s journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The scheme promises to create a robust and inclusive STI ecosystem that aligns with global standards and addresses the nation's most pressing challenges.

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