The Indian government has launched the 'Vigyan Dhara' scheme to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. This new programme is set to transform the science and technology curriculum for students in grades 11 and 12 by integrating hands-on internship opportunities and fostering future research endeavours.
A unified central sector scheme named 'Vigyan Dhara' was formed on Monday of last week by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and approved for continuation by the Union Cabinet, which is headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The plan aims to improve the effectiveness of fund utilisation and guarantee improved coordination between the various sub-schemes and programmes. "Vigyan Dhara," which is budgeted ₹10,579.84 crore for the 15th Finance Commission period (2021–22 to 2025–26), intends to support India's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasised that this scheme is designed to enhance students' engagement with real-world applications of their studies, thereby boosting their career prospects in the science and technology sectors.
According to the Hindustan Times, the scheme will include several key components:
1. School-Level Internships: Students in grades 11 and 12 will have access to specialised internship programmes, while fellowships will be available for advanced research, including PhD and post-doctoral studies.
2. International Research Collaboration: The scheme will support ongoing research activities through international cooperation, fostering a global exchange of ideas and expertise.
3. Joint Research Projects: Emphasis will be placed on collaborative research initiatives, joint projects, and fellowships to leverage collective expertise and resources.
4. Addressing Societal Challenges: The programme will focus on research topics with significant societal impacts, such as climate change, to drive meaningful improvements in these areas.
5. Practical Application of Research: Beyond research, there will be a strong focus on the practical application of findings and their benefits to society, ensuring that research outcomes are relevant and impactful.
The Times of India reports that the Vigyan Dhara scheme is set to redefine how students interact with science and technology. By emphasising practical experiences and collaborative efforts, the scheme aims to foster a new generation of professionals who are well-equipped to tackle pressing global challenges. This initiative is expected to not only enhance India's reputation in the field of science and technology but also ensure that research translates into tangible societal benefits.
