NITI Aayog Unveils Roadmap to Strengthen State Science & Technology Councils

New Delhi, July 10, 2025 — In a major step towards decentralizing innovation and boosting state-level scientific capabilities, NITI Aayog today released a comprehensive report titled “A Roadmap for Strengthening State Science & Technology Councils.” The launch event, held in the national capital, was attended by key policymakers and scientists, including NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Shri Suman Bery, Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh, and NITI Aayog Member Dr. V.K. Saraswat.

The roadmap outlines a strategic framework to transform State S&T Councils into vibrant, mission-oriented innovation ecosystems. Developed through extensive consultations across regions, national-level workshops, and engagement with diverse stakeholders, the report calls for a shift from administrative functioning to integrated innovation facilitation.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Saraswat emphasized the evolving role of these councils: “To respond to the demands of the 21st century, our State S&T Councils must operate not only as administrative units but as integrated innovation ecosystems.” He highlighted the need for robust leadership, effective data systems, and cross-sectoral collaboration involving academia, industry, and grassroots innovators.

Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of diversified funding models, urging state governments to view industries as active partners in the innovation value chain. “States should not rely solely on government allocations—industries must also contribute to co-financing innovation initiatives,” he stated.

The report proposes thematic cluster-based collaboration among states, such as in biotechnology, clean energy, and agricultural innovation, to harness regional strengths and promote shared resources and expertise. It also stresses the role of digital platforms and modern data systems in improving governance and impact tracking.

Senior officials from various scientific institutions—including CSIR, DST, DBT, DSIR, MoES, MeitY, and the upcoming ANRF—participated in the event, signaling strong institutional backing for the initiative.

NITI Aayog’s roadmap is expected to guide the transformation of State S&T Councils into agile, outcome-driven hubs that contribute meaningfully to India’s innovation-led growth trajectory.

The full report is available on NITI Aayog’s official website

Source: PIB