Context:

Recently, the Indian Union Cabinet approved the Vigyan Dhara scheme, merging several existing science promotion programs under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). 

More on the News:

• This move aims to strengthen India's research base and accelerate scientific solutions to pressing national challenges.
• The Vigyan Dhara initiative is designed to improve fund utilization and enhance efficiency in scientific research and is aligned with India’s vision for development, known as Viksit Bharat 2047.

About Vigyan Dhara Scheme: The Scheme has three Core Components:

• Institutional and Human Capacity Building: Focuses on developing skilled scientists and robust research institutions.
• Research and Development: Supports cutting-edge scientific investigations across various disciplines.
• Innovation and Technology Development: Encourages the creation and deployment of new technologies to address societal needs.
• The proposed outlay for implementation of the Unified Scheme “Vigyan Dhara” during the period 2021-22 to 2025-26 is ₹ 10,579.84 crore.

Focus Areas of the scheme: 

• First Focus: Develop bio-chemicals, bio-enzymes, and bio-polymers for industrial, consumer, and scientific uses.
• Second Focus: Create functional foods to supplement land-based agriculture and alleviate pressure on land resources.
• Third Focus: Advance bio-therapeutics, including targeted therapies for genetic disorders and cancers.
• Fourth Focus: Support agriculture with bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides to enhance resilience and reduce chemical usage in foods.
• Fifth Focus: Develop bio-fuels and bio-chemicals from captured carbon emissions.

Merger of Existing Programs:

• INSPIRE Integration: Incorporates the successful INSPIRE programme, which attracts young talent to scientific research.
• Flexible Fund Allocation: Allows DST to reallocate resources within the scheme's framework for maximum impact.

Coordination with ANRF:

• Complementary Approach: The R&D component of the scheme will be aligned in line with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to avoid duplication of efforts.
• Streamlined Research Ecosystem: Enhances overall efficiency in India's scientific landscape.

Significance:

• Enhanced Resource Utilization: Consolidation of programs leads to better use of financial and human resources.
• Focused Research Efforts: Directs scientific energies towards specific areas crucial for India's sustainable development.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Promotes cross-pollination of ideas between different scientific domains.
• Global Competitiveness: Positions India as a significant player in the global scientific community.
• Socio-Economic Impact: Accelerates the development of solutions for clean energy, healthcare, and agriculture challenges.