Innovation Promotion Programmes of Council of Science and Technology

What are the major objectives and target group in Innovation Promotion Programmes of the Council of Science and Technology in Uttar Pradesh?

Approach: Begin with an introduction about the Council of Science and Technology in Uttar Pradesh and its role. In the body, elaborate on the major objectives of its Innovation Promotion Programmes. Next, identify and discuss the target groups for these programmes. Conclude by highlighting the significance of these programmes for the state’s development.

The Council of Science and Technology in Uttar Pradesh (UPCST), established as the state’s nodal agency for scientific advancement, works to bridge the gap between scientific research and societal applications. Among its various initiatives, the Council has launched Innovation Promotion Programmes to address a critical challenge. Valuable local innovations and traditional knowledge often lack recognition and support, leading to their gradual erosion and loss of potential benefit to society.

The major objectives of the Innovation Promotion Programmes are as follows:

1. Recognition of indigenous expertise: To recognize, respect, and reward grassroots innovators and traditional knowledge experts, validating their contributions to society and technological advancement.
2. Volunteer network development: To promote volunteers for identification of innovators, innovations, and traditional knowledge practices throughout Uttar Pradesh, creating a sustainable scouting mechanism.
3. Institutional linkages: To connect innovators and traditional knowledge holders with institutional scientists, technologists, and designers to add value to their technologies through scientific validation and enhancement.
4. Competitive exposure: To guide and support grassroots innovators to participate in national and international level competitions and exhibitions, increasing visibility and opportunities for collaboration.
5. Cultural transformation: To motivate and foster a culture of creativity and innovation in society, encouraging problem-solving approaches and innovative thinking at all levels.

The target groups for these Innovation Promotion Programmes include:

1. Sectoral innovators: The Council specifically focuses on grassroots innovators from diverse backgrounds including farmers, artisans, workers, mechanics, traditional medicine practitioners, and students who develop practical solutions based on their domain expertise and contextual understanding.
2. Non-formally educated innovators: The programmes particularly target the general public who do not possess Bachelor or Professional degrees, as well as people from unrecognized sectors, acknowledging that innovation capability is not limited by formal education.

This programme represents UPCST’s effort to preserve traditional knowledge while fostering technological advancement in Uttar Pradesh. By supporting grassroots innovation, the Council creates pathways for inclusive development that addresses regional challenges while contributing to the state’s technological self-reliance and economic growth.