Technology Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC)

The Technology Information, Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC) is an autonomous organisation under the Government of India that functions as a national think tank on technology. Established to anticipate, evaluate, and guide technological developments, TIFAC supports evidence-based decision-making for scientific advancement, industrial growth, and national policy formulation.

Background and Establishment

TIFAC was founded in 1988 under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The idea originated from India’s Technology Policy Statement of 1983, which emphasised the need for a systematic approach to understanding and managing emerging technologies. The council was envisioned as a dedicated body that could forecast technological trends, assess their implications, and prepare strategic roadmaps for national development.
Since its creation, TIFAC has evolved into a major platform that connects academia, industry, research organisations, and government departments. It plays a central role in formulating long-term technology visions and strengthening India’s indigenous innovation capabilities.

Objectives and Mandate

TIFAC’s primary objectives focus on strengthening India’s technological foresight and preparedness. Its mandate includes:

• Conducting technology forecasting and assessment studies to identify future trends and opportunities.
• Preparing national technology vision documents and roadmaps for key sectors.
• Assessing techno-economic feasibility of emerging technologies and suggesting interventions to bridge gaps.
• Facilitating linkages between research, industry, and policy for faster technology adoption.
• Supporting innovation, commercialisation, and skill development through collaborative programmes.

Major Programmes and Initiatives

Technology Vision and Foresight

TIFAC is best known for developing Technology Vision documents that outline the strategic direction for India’s technological growth:

• Technology Vision 2020, prepared under the leadership of Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, laid the foundation for India’s long-term technology strategy, identifying priority areas in energy, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure.
• Technology Vision 2035 expanded this framework, introducing twelve thematic areas including environment, materials, manufacturing, education, and information technology.

These vision documents analyse global technology trajectories and recommend policy actions for India to remain competitive and self-reliant.

Technology Assessment and Studies

TIFAC regularly undertakes technology assessment and techno-economic studies to evaluate both existing and emerging technologies. These studies include:

• Examination of the social, environmental, and economic impacts of technologies.
• Cost-benefit and feasibility analysis to support policy and investment decisions.
• Identification of technology gaps and recommendations for strengthening domestic capabilities.
• Mapping of industrial sectors and market potential for specific technologies.

Such assessments are vital for aligning national R&D priorities with socio-economic needs.

Innovation Support and MSME Programmes

TIFAC also focuses on promoting innovation and technology upgradation, particularly within Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).Key initiatives include:

• The TIFAC–SIDBI Technology Innovation Programme, which provides technical and financial support for R&D-based innovation and commercialisation in MSMEs.
• Technology upgradation and cluster development programmes, aimed at fostering collaboration between academia and small industries.
• Internship schemes connecting young researchers and students with industrial projects to enhance applied innovation.
• Demonstration projects in strategic areas such as seaweed cultivation and the SAKSHAM initiative, which matches skilled labourers to MSME opportunities through digital platforms.

Knowledge Networks and Collaboration

TIFAC operates a Network of Experts in Science and Technology (NEST), drawing upon specialists from diverse domains across India. This network contributes to foresight exercises, assessments, and advisory functions. The council also collaborates with ministries, research institutions, universities, and international organisations to promote multidisciplinary approaches in technology policy planning.

Key Achievements and Contributions

Over the decades, TIFAC has made significant contributions to India’s technology landscape:

• Development of long-term technology vision documents that have influenced national planning and policy.
• Strengthening foresight-based approaches in areas such as energy, environment, healthcare, and ICT.
• Enabling industry–academia partnerships and promoting indigenous technology innovation.
• Supporting MSMEs in product development, modernisation, and market competitiveness.
• Launching public-oriented initiatives such as SAKSHAM and the Seaweed Mission, aligning technological progress with livelihood enhancement and environmental sustainability.

TIFAC’s analytical outputs have been instrumental in shaping science and technology strategies at both central and state levels.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its achievements, TIFAC faces several challenges:

• Implementation gap: Translating foresight studies into practical, scalable technology deployment remains a complex process.
• Resource limitations: Ensuring adequate funding and maintaining a skilled workforce are continuous challenges.
• Coordination barriers: Effective collaboration across ministries and sectors can be hindered by overlapping mandates and differing priorities.
• Rapid technological change: The fast pace of innovation in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing requires more agile forecasting methods.
• Inclusivity and outreach: Ensuring that technology development benefits rural, marginalised, and underserved communities remains a priority area.

Future Outlook

As India advances towards a knowledge-driven economy, TIFAC’s role is becoming increasingly significant. The council is expected to:

• Adopt real-time foresight and predictive analytics using artificial intelligence and big data.
• Focus on mission-oriented research areas like clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and digital transformation.
• Strengthen mechanisms for technology transfer, commercialisation, and diffusion across industries.
• Foster international collaboration to benchmark India’s technology foresight against global best practices.
• Encourage inclusive innovation to ensure equitable distribution of technological benefits across regions.