Vigyan Dhara: Driving India’s Scientific Growth and Innovation

Vigyan Dhara is a government initiative aimed at strengthening India’s scientific research, innovation, and technology sectors. The budget for the scheme has significantly increased from Rs. 330.75 crore in 2024-25 to Rs. 1425.00 crore in 2025-26, with a total outlay of Rs. 10,579.84 crore (2021-26). Launched on January 16, 2025, it integrates three major programs, focusing on institutional capacity building, R&D, and innovation. Key goals include establishing research labs, promoting startups, and fostering international collaborations.

It also emphasizes gender inclusion in STEM and supports young innovators through the INSPIRE-MANAK program. So far, 57,869 beneficiaries have availed of the scheme, including 4,002 in Telangana. The initiative aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047 and supports the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). With increased funding, Vigyan Dhara aims to enhance India’s global scientific standing through stronger academia-industry partnerships and a rising number of research publications.

Vigyan Dhara: Driving India’s Scientific Growth and Innovation

The Indian government is making significant strides in strengthening science and technology through the Vigyan Dhara initiative. With a substantial increase in funding, it demonstrates a strong commitment to research, innovation, and technological advancement. The scheme’s budget has surged from Rs. 330.75 crore in 2024-25 to Rs. 1425.00 crore in 2025-26. Over five years (2021-22 to 2025-26), the total investment stands at Rs. 10,579.84 crore, aligning with the 15th Finance Commission’s goals. This substantial funding underscores the government’s focus on science and technology as key drivers of national development.

What is Vigyan Dhara?

Launched on January 16, 2025, Vigyan Dhara consolidates three major science and technology programs into a unified initiative. It primarily focuses on:

1. Building Scientific Institutions and Talent – Strengthening research infrastructure, supporting scientists, and improving academic research facilities.
2. Research and Development (R&D) – Promoting fundamental research in critical areas such as sustainable energy, water management, and international collaborations.
3. Innovation and Technology – Supporting startups, fostering industry partnerships, and translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications.

By integrating these components, Vigyan Dhara enhances coordination and ensures efficient use of resources for scientific progress.

Key Focus Areas

1. Strengthening Research Infrastructure – Establishing advanced laboratories in educational institutions, promoting research at universities, and encouraging global collaborations.
2. Advancing R&D – Supporting both fundamental and applied research, expanding access to global research facilities, and increasing the number of full-time researchers.
3. Promoting Innovation and Technology – Assisting science and tech startups, facilitating technology transfers from labs to industries, and promoting indigenous technological advancements.
4. Gender Inclusion in Science – Increasing women’s participation in STEM fields and ensuring equal opportunities in research and innovation.
5. International Partnerships – Encouraging joint research projects, fostering knowledge exchange with global scientists, and strengthening India’s position in international scientific research.

Impact of Vigyan Dhara

The initiative is already yielding positive results by strengthening collaboration between academia, government, and industry. More women are entering science and technology fields, and India’s R&D capabilities are aligning with global standards. All programs under Vigyan Dhara support the Department of Science and Technology’s (DST) five-year plan and contribute to the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Additionally, the R&D component backs the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to ensure globally competitive research while addressing national priorities.

Encouraging a Scientific Mindset

As of March 2025, over 57,000 students and researchers have benefited from Vigyan Dhara. Many young students (ages 10-15) have participated in the INSPIRE-MANAK program, which nurtures creativity and innovation in science. In Telangana alone, 4,002 individuals have benefited, with Rs. 3.3 crore utilized as of March 10, 2025. With increased funding, more states and institutions will be able to participate and benefit from the initiative.

Expanding Scientific Awareness

To reach a broader audience, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is actively promoting Vigyan Dhara through:

• Media campaigns in newspapers, television, and social media.
• A dedicated website providing easy access to information.
• Direct engagement with researchers, students, and institutions.

Rising Research and Publications

India is steadily climbing the ranks in global scientific research publications, as noted in a recent National Science Foundation (USA) report. To support researchers, the government has introduced several measures, including:

• Increasing research funding annually.
• Establishing the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) under the ANRF Act 2023.
• Creating Centres of Excellence across various scientific fields.
• Providing research fellowships for financial support.
• Encouraging industry partnerships for applied research.

These initiatives aim to boost research output, drive innovation, and increase patents and technology transfers, benefiting India’s industries and economy.

Shaping India’s Scientific Future

With its increased funding and comprehensive strategy, Vigyan Dhara is poised to transform India’s science and technology sector. By fostering innovation, enhancing research capabilities, and promoting global collaborations, the initiative is paving the way for India to emerge as a global leader in science and technology. More than just scientific growth, this initiative represents a step toward building a brighter, innovation-driven future for the nation.