NITI Aayog recommends reducing 'core' grant support for State S&T Councils, shifting to project-based funding
NITI Aayog has recommended that the Department of Science and Technology (DST) reduce its 'core grant support' for State Science and Technology (S&T) Councils, advocating for a shift towards 'project-based support'. This recommendation is part of a report, 'Roadmap for strengthening State Science and Technology Councils.' The report notes that while State S&T Councils are vital for scientific research and popularisation, their contribution to India's overall scientific output has been less significant compared to Centrally funded institutions. Despite a 17.65% increase in total funding for State S&T Councils in 2023-25, regional imbalances in S&T development remain a concern, with central funding often being a minuscule source for state budgets.
Key Points
- NITI Aayog proposes reducing 'core grant support' for State S&T Councils, favoring project-based funding.
- The report highlights that State S&T Councils have not contributed as significantly to national scientific output as central institutions.
- Despite increased overall funding, regional disparities in S&T development persist.
- The recommendation aims to make funding more outcome-oriented and efficient.
Exam Facts
- NITI Aayog report: 'Roadmap for strengthening State Science and Technology Councils.'
- Department of Science and Technology (DST) provides grants to State S&T Councils.
- Example: Gujarat's State S&T Council received only ₹1.07 crore from Centre out of ₹300 crore budget.
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