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New Delhi, India – The Ministry of Science and Technology, through its three departments—Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR)—has been implementing a series of central sector schemes aimed at bolstering the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem across the nation. These schemes operate at a pan-India level, ensuring equitable opportunities for researchers and institutions throughout the country.
Key Schemes and Missions
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is driving three umbrella schemes:
- Science and Technology Institutional and Human Capacity Building,
- Research and Development, and
- Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment.
Additionally, DST is spearheading two national missions:
- The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) and
- The National Quantum Mission (NQM).
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has introduced the Biotechnology Research Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (Bio-RIDE) scheme, focusing on:
- Biotechnology Research and Development,
- Industrial and Entrepreneurship Development, and
- Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry.
Meanwhile, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) is advancing industrial research through its flagship Industrial Research and Development Promotion Program (IRDPP). This program fosters collaboration between industries and academic institutions to create an enabling environment for technological innovation and utilization.
Broad Impact Across Sectors
These initiatives contribute significantly to human capacity building by offering fellowships, establishing cutting-edge research facilities, promoting basic and translational research, and encouraging international collaborations. They also aim to bridge gender gaps in STEM fields, enhance the participation of women, and develop technology interventions for socio-economic upliftment, particularly for disadvantaged sections of society.
Notably, the schemes also promote innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting start-ups and industrial research. For instance, women entrepreneurs in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra received assistance for setting up businesses, with 49 and 4 beneficiaries, respectively.
Transparent and Inclusive Implementation
The schemes are implemented through a competitive and transparent process, with calls for applications and research proposals disseminated online. Information is made accessible via websites and social media, ensuring outreach to stakeholders nationwide.
In a written reply to the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, emphasized that these schemes are designed to benefit researchers and institutions across all states and Union Territories, without district-specific focus. He clarified that no unique steps have been taken for Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) or any other district.
Aiming for a Self-Reliant India
Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Science and Technology continues to lay the foundation for a robust STI ecosystem, contributing to India’s vision of becoming a global leader in innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
