Vigyan Dhara: India's New Science and Innovation Scheme

The Union Cabinet has approved the merger of three major schemes into 'Vigyan Dhara', a new central sector scheme under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Introduction of Vigyan Dhara

Union Cabinet approves the merger of three major schemes into 'Vigyan Dhara'
New central sector scheme under the Department of Science and Technology (DST)
Budget allocation of Rs 10,579.84 crore for 2021-22 to 2025-26
Aims to strengthen India's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem
Supports DST's five-year plan and contributes to India's 2047 development vision

Components and Objectives of Vigyan Dhara

Three main components:

a) Science and Technology (S&T) Institutional and Human Capacity Building

b) Research and Development

c) Innovation, Technology Development, and Deployment

Key objectives:

- Promote S&T capacity building
- Enhance research, innovation, and technology development
- Strengthen S&T infrastructure in academic institutions
- Support diverse research areas (e.g., sustainable energy, water)
- Boost international collaboration
- Develop human resources in S&T
- Improve gender balance in scientific fields

Implementation and Alignment

Merger enhances fund utilization efficiency and synchronization among sub-schemes
Aligns with Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) for better coordination
Follows global standards while addressing national priorities
Focuses on specific areas crucial for India's sustainable growth
Provides flexibility to DST for reorienting schemes within the framework
Avoids duplication of work with ANRF programs

Biotechnology Initiative: BioE3 Policy

Cabinet approves "BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy"
Aims to foster high-performance biomanufacturing
Supports innovation-driven research and development across six thematic areas:

a) Bio-chemicals, bio-enzymes, and bio-polymers

b) Smart proteins and functional foods

c) Bio-therapeutics

d) Agriculture (bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides)

e) Bio-fuels and bio-chemicals

f) Marine and space applications

Focuses on accelerating technology development and commercialization
Expands India's skilled workforce in biotechnology
Aligns with government initiatives like 'Net Zero' carbon economy and 'Lifestyle for Environment'

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