Dr. Jitendra Singh Advocates for Structured Competency Framework in Scientific Institutions

The Minister directed that this framework, to be developed in collaboration with the Capacity Building Commission, should encompass both functional and domain-specific competencies.

In a high-level meeting attended by Secretaries of Scientific Ministries, Departments, and Organizations, along with other senior officials, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the urgent need for a structured competency framework for professionals in scientific institutions across India.

The Minister directed that this framework, to be developed in collaboration with the Capacity Building Commission, should encompass both functional and domain-specific competencies. He underscored the necessity of incorporating "outreach to public stakeholders" as a key performance indicator (KPI), highlighting that this critical aspect is often neglected by science ministries.

Review of “Vigyan Shakti” Initiative and ISTI Portal

Taking stock of the ambitious “Vigyan Shakti” initiative, Dr. Singh reviewed its progress, reiterating its pivotal role as a unified repository aimed at translating scientific endeavors into tangible developmental outcomes. The initiative is anchored on pillars such as inter-agency collaboration, industry-academia partnerships, and robust leadership and governance frameworks. These pillars are designed to maximize the returns on investments made in the scientific sector.

As part of this review, Dr. Singh assessed the India Science, Technology, and Innovation (ISTI) Portal, which is envisioned as a comprehensive database consolidating India's science and technology ecosystem. The portal aims to enhance accessibility to critical research resources, fostering a more connected and efficient scientific community.

Common Fellowship Portal: Increasing Accessibility to Research Grants

Dr. Singh also evaluated the status of the Common Fellowship Portal, a one-stop platform for research grants in India. The latest data reveals that the portal has attracted over 5,000 registered users, with more than 1,500 profiles completed, making these individuals eligible to apply for fellowships. Expressing satisfaction with the growing participation, the Minister encouraged further outreach efforts to ensure that research grants are more accessible to young scientists and early-career researchers.

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Industry

In a bid to bridge the longstanding gap between research and industry, Dr. Singh proposed that all scientific laboratories under various ministries develop a dedicated calendar for industrial engagement meetings. He emphasized that structured interactions with the private sector would not only expedite the commercialization of scientific discoveries but also amplify their impact on public welfare. Such initiatives, he stated, would ensure that technological breakthroughs reach the broader population more swiftly and efficiently.

Promoting Inclusivity in Scientific Research

To foster inclusivity within the scientific community, Dr. Singh urged all departments to explore opportunities for involving tribal students in scientific institutes through internships and exposure programs. He stressed that these initiatives would provide underprivileged students with invaluable insights into research and innovation, thereby nurturing a more diverse and inclusive scientific workforce.

Attendees and Collaborative Efforts

The meeting was attended by prominent figures in the scientific community, including Dr. A.K. Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India; Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DST); Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology; Shri Ravi Chandran, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences; Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR; and Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space, among other senior officials.

The discussions and directives from this meeting mark a significant step towards institutionalizing structured scientific engagement, fostering innovation, and ensuring that the benefits of scientific research extend beyond laboratories to public stakeholders, thereby contributing to national development.