Prelims: Current Events of National and International importance
Why in News?
Recently, Niti Aayog has proposed a roadmap to strengthen State Science and Technology (S&T).
Aim - To decentralize scientific governance and boost region-specific innovation for economic growth.
Focus - It is focusing on structural reforms, funding strategies, and stronger industry linkages to make these councils drivers of technological self-reliance and sustainable development.
Transforming Councils into Innovation Hubs - State S&T Councils must evolve from passive bodies into dynamic enablers of regional innovation.
Funding Imbalances - The report recommends performance-linked funding and encouraging councils to secure project grants and private sector support.
States like Kerala and Karnataka, have leveraged their councils to drive initiatives whereas other states remain hindered by irregular meetings, limited autonomy, and over-reliance on core grants from central agencies.
Leadership - Niti Aayog suggests full-time executive directors with industry expertise and including industry bodies (CII, FICCI), scientists in council governance for better accountability and impact.
Boosting Industry Partnerships – Strengthening Industry engagement ties is crucial for converting research into market-ready solutions and fostering local entrepreneurship.
Successful State Initiatives
Punjab’s anti-stubble burning briquetting plants,
Mizoram’s grassroots innovation centre, and
Kerala’s fellowship for women scientists returning to research.
Towards a Knowledge Economy - State S&T Councils are vital for addressing local challenges in agriculture, renewable energy, disaster management, and healthcare.
Empowering them is key to building a resilient, innovation-driven India ready to compete globally.
Need for Reform - India faces rising global competition in innovation and seeks to improve its R&D rankings.
Empowering state institutions is seen as essential for bridging gaps in the decentralised R&D landscape and achieving technological ambitions.
