Vigyan Dhara Scheme, Components and Significance

Vigyan Dhara Scheme aims to promote scientific research, innovation, and technological advancements in India, fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and development.

Context: The Government of India has significantly increased the allocation for the Vigyan Dhara scheme from ₹330.75 crore (2024-25) to ₹1425.00 crore (2025-26).

About Vigyan Dhara Scheme

Vigyan Dhara Scheme is a central sector scheme unifying three umbrella schemes of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).

Components of Vigyan Dhara Scheme

It has 3 major components:

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

Establishment of advanced research laboratories in academic institutions.
Faculty development and student research support.
Promotion of international scientific collaborations.

Research and Development

Encouragement of basic research with access to international mega facilities.
Support for translational research in key areas like sustainable energy and water.
Strengthening India’s Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) researcher count to enhance R&D output.

Innovation, Technology Development and Deployment

Support for startups and entrepreneurs in science and technology.
Facilitation of technology transfer and commercialization.
Development of indigenous technologies to reduce reliance on imports.
Promotion of innovation from schools to higher education and industries.

Other Components

Promoting Gender Parity in Science & Technology:
- Special programs to increase women’s participation in science and technology (S&T).
- Ensuring gender equality in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) through targeted interventions.
The scheme’s R&D component will be aligned with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).