Union Cabinet Approves ‘Vigyan Dhara’ Science Schemes

August 27, 2024

The Union Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of three major schemes, combining them into a new central sector scheme called ‘Vigyan Dhara.’ This scheme will have a proposed budget of Rs 10,579.84 crore for the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26, according to the 15th Finance Commission.

Objectives of ‘Vigyan Dhara’

The main goal of ‘Vigyan Dhara’ is to strengthen India’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem. It supports the Department of Science and Technology’s (DST) five-year plan and contributes to the vision of a developed India by 2047.

Components of the Scheme

‘Vigyan Dhara’ includes three key components:

Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building: This focuses on improving infrastructure and developing skilled personnel for scientific progress.

Research and Development: This component supports innovation and discovery through well-funded research projects.

Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment: This aims to advance new technologies and enhance India’s technological abilities.

Financial Allocation

The scheme has a budget of Rs 10,579.84 crore, which will be used to ensure the effective use of funds and better coordination among various sub-schemes and programs.

Key Focus Areas

Under ‘Vigyan Dhara,’ the following will be emphasized:

Strengthening S&T Infrastructure: Improving and equipping research and development labs in educational institutions.

Promoting Diverse Research: Supporting research in areas like sustainable energy and water.

Enhancing International Collaboration: Boosting research partnerships with other countries.

Developing Human Resources: Building a skilled workforce in the S&T field and improving gender balance.

Collaboration and Alignment

The initiatives under ‘Vigyan Dhara’ will work closely with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). This ensures that efforts align with global standards and national priorities, promoting better coordination among various S&T activities across India. By integrating the previous three schemes into ‘Vigyan Dhara,’ the government aims to streamline efforts and enhance the impact of India’s S&T sector, contributing to the nation’s growth towards 2047.

« Previous Post Next Post »