Dhanbad: Dr. Pravakar Mohanty, Scientist E of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), delivered an insightful lecture on R&D grant opportunities during a guest talk at IIT (ISM). Held at the Management Hall, his presentation, titled “Opportunities for R&D Grants: DST Perspective,” informed faculty members and research scholars about the pivotal role of DST in promoting R&D across the country.
Dr. Mohanty’s over two-hour presentation, followed by a Q&A session, highlighted various facets of DST’s focus. He emphasized enhancing the quality and relevance of R&D, translating technology and innovation to the market, and connecting academia, R&D labs, industry, startups, MSMEs, NGOs, and governmental bodies. He also discussed the importance of societal connect with the slogan “Science for People and People for Science,” and stressed the department’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, ensuring opportunities for young, women, and rural researchers.
Key areas of focus for DST, as outlined by Dr. Mohanty, include aligning science and technology with national priorities such as water, energy, environment, sustainability, EV transport, health, smart manufacturing, quantum mission, cyber science (ICPS), climate, and geospatial initiatives.
Expressing concern over the low percentage of students pursuing science at the college level, Dr. Mohanty emphasized the government’s efforts to attract, motivate, nurture, and train talented students through schemes like the Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Scheme. He urged faculty members and research scholars to spread awareness about opportunities and careers in science, with the aim of expanding the country’s R&D base and building a pipeline of quality manpower.
Dr. Mohanty also detailed the MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National, Aspirational and Knowledge) program, which invites innovative ideas from class 6 to 12 students in any of the 22 languages available on the MANAK e-portal.
Additionally, he highlighted the Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST), which aims to provide essential infrastructure and facilities for R&D activities in universities and educational institutions, promoting research in new and emerging areas and attracting new talent.
Dr. Mohanty’s lecture provided valuable insights into the opportunities for R&D grants and the crucial role of DST in fostering scientific research and development in India.
