NITI Aayog Proposes Reform for State Science Councils
The NITI Aayog in 2025 recommended reforms for the Department of Science and Technology’s (DST) funding of State Science and Technology (S&T) Councils. The suggestion is to shift from core grant support to project-based funding. This comes amid concerns over the councils’ limited impact on India’s scientific output and regional disparities in funding.
Role and Origin of State Science and Technology Councils
State S&T Councils were established in the 1970s to decentralise scientific governance. Their aim is to enable states to pursue research aligned with local socio-economic needs. These councils support scientific research, popularisation, patent applications, and policy advice at the state level. Despite their importance, they receive minimal funding from the Central government, primarily through the DST.
Funding Patterns and Regional Disparities
State Councils’ budgets vary widely. For example, Gujarat’s council has a ₹300 crore budget with only ₹1.07 crore from the Centre. Kerala’s ₹150 crore budget has no Central funding. The 2023-24 and 2024-25 budgets show a 17.65% increase overall but reveal stark regional imbalances. Kerala, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have larger budgets, while Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, and Uttarakhand face cuts. Maharashtra’s budget doubled, indicating uneven prioritisation across states.
Challenges in State Councils’ Performance
The councils struggle to keep pace with rapid changes in research and development. Most scientific output in India comes from Central institutions. State-administered bodies have yet to make mark. The report marks councils’ over-reliance on core grants and their poor success in attracting project-based funding from Central ministries and agencies.
Recommendations for Strengthening State Councils
The report advises shifting to project-based funding to promote accountability and efficiency. It calls for improved governance and stronger links with local industries and public sector enterprises. It suggests prioritising funding to state universities over Central research institutes to boost regional research capacity. The aim is to harness collective efforts of both Central and State institutions to accelerate India’s scientific progress.
Implications for India’s Science and Technology Ecosystem
Reforming State S&T Councils could reduce regional disparities and enhance innovation tailored to local needs. Encouraging project-based grants may incentivise more dynamic research activities. Stronger industry connections can facilitate practical applications of science. Overall, these changes intend to create a more balanced and effective national science framework.
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