Vigyan Dhara Scheme Launched

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:

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

• Research and Development

• 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:

  • Bio-chemicals, bio-enzymes, and bio-polymers

  • Smart proteins and functional foods

  • Bio-therapeutics

  • Agriculture (bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides)

  • Bio-fuels and bio-chemicals

  • 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'

Final Thoughts

The launch of Vigyan Dhara marks a significant step forward in India's mission to strengthen its Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem.

By merging three major schemes under one unified framework, the government aims to streamline implementation, enhance resource efficiency, and provide greater strategic direction in line with India's long-term development goals, including Vision 2047.

Complementing this, the approval of the BioE3 Policy further emphasizes the government's commitment to building a sustainable and innovation-driven biotechnology sector.

Together, these initiatives promise to elevate India's global standing in science and technology, foster cutting-edge research, nurture talent, and accelerate economic, environmental, and employment growth in alignment with national priorities.