Bhubaneswar: In a major step to boost scientific research and innovation, the Odisha Cabinet on Saturday approved the State Council on Science and Technology scheme.
The five-year programme, running from 2025–26 to 2029–30 with an estimated budget of Rs 254.85 crore, aims to promote science, technology, and innovation for socio-economic development across the state, Chief Secretary Anu Garg told reporters after the Cabinet meeting.
The Odisha State Council on Science an
d Technology, under the Department of Science & Technology, will implement the scheme. The Council has played a key role in fostering a scientific temper, supporting research and development, and linking academia, research institutions, and industry.
The State Council on Science and Technology will be an umbrella scheme comprising 14 sub-schemes and programmes.
– Encourage meritorious students to pursue higher studies and research in science.
– Support universities and research institutions in R&D activities.
– Promote scientific collaboration, innovation, and awareness of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).
– Popularise science through District Science Centres, planetariums, exhibitions, and competitions.
– Build a robust innovation ecosystem by establishing Innovation Hubs, preparing an innovation roadmap, and supporting grassroots and young innovators.