Vigyan Dhara: India's New Science and Innovation Scheme

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'