Govt Expands Research, Professional Programmes: Over 50,000 Beneficiaries, Including 10,000 Tribal Students

Under DST, the Inspire Awards-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspiration and Knowledge) programme has awarded around 21,087 ST students over the last five years

The Government of India has undertaken several initiatives to develop an inclusive society by expanding research and professional programmes aimed at empowering marginalized communities. Through various schemes implemented by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the government has strengthened support for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), Divyangjan, and other disadvantaged groups.

Growth in Science and Technology Interventions

The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR)/Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have played a crucial role in promoting inclusivity through research, skill development, and technological interventions.

Under DST, the Inspire Awards-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspiration and Knowledge) programme has awarded around 21,087 ST students over the last five years, encouraging innovative ideas in science and technology. Additionally, the STUTI (Synergistic Training Utilizing the Scientific and Technological Infrastructure) programme has provided hands-on training to nearly 10,000 tribal researchers and students in advanced scientific techniques.

The National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical System (NM-ICPS) has established 30 labs and experience centres, providing hands-on learning opportunities to thousands of students, while the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is actively promoting the participation of SC, ST, and marginalized students in quantum research through Thematic Hubs at premier institutions like IISc Bengaluru and IIT Madras.

Strengthening Biotechnology and Agricultural Research Support

DBT has been instrumental in providing higher education opportunities through DBT-Junior Research Fellowships and PG Teaching Programmes. The STAR College Programme has supported 75 colleges in rural areas, 13 in aspirational districts, and 58 women's colleges, significantly enhancing STEM education accessibility.

In the agricultural sector, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has restructured its curriculum in 13 disciplines to promote entrepreneurship and skill development under the READY (Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojana) programme, benefiting SC and ST students with hands-on training opportunities.

Increasing Opportunities for Higher Education and Employment

The CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative has been a major effort to bridge skill gaps in scientific disciplines, benefiting undergraduates, postgraduates, and research students from marginalized backgrounds. The introduction of reservation for EWS candidates in the CSIR-UGC NET examination has expanded access to research careers, while eligibility relaxation for SC, ST, and OBC students has further enhanced inclusivity.

The Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission (ASIIM) has fostered entrepreneurship among SC students by supporting innovative business ventures in fields like agri-tech, ed-tech, and green energy.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has expanded its National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme, providing financial assistance to meritorious SC, ST, and De-notified Nomadic Tribes (DNT) students for higher education abroad. Over the last five years, the number of students receiving this scholarship has grown significantly, from 51 in 2019-20 to 126 in 2023-24, with a total of 485 beneficiaries. This reflects an increasing emphasis on global educational opportunities for marginalized students.

Future Challenges and Funding Needs

Despite these advancements, challenges remain in sustaining funding for these initiatives. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has already exceeded its five-year budget of ₹20 crore in just four years, spending ₹21.95 crore under the NOS Scheme. The Ministry has initiated steps to obtain additional funding approval to ensure the continued operation of this crucial scholarship programme.

The expansion of research and professional training initiatives demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering an equitable society. However, ensuring sustained financial resources and continuous upskilling efforts will be key to maintaining this positive trajectory.

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