Odisha Cabinet clears scheme to promote scientific temper, innovation

Bhubaneswar, Jan 31 : The Odisha Cabinet on Saturday approved the ‘State Council on Science and Technology’ scheme with an aim to popularise science, technology and innovation among the general public, particularly students, and to foster a strong scientific temper across the state.

Chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the Cabinet gave its nod to implement the scheme over a five-year period from 2025–26 to 2029–30, with an estimated outlay of Rs 254.85 crore.

Designed as an umbrella initiative, the scheme comprises 14 sub-schemes and programmes focused on science education, research, innovation and public outreach. Its key objectives include encouraging meritorious students to pursue higher education and research in science, and providing sustained support to universities and research institutions for research and development activities.

The initiative will promote scientific collaboration, innovation and awareness of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), while popularising rational thinking and scientific temper through educational programmes, exhibitions and competitions. District Science Centres and planetariums will play a major role in taking science closer to students and the wider public.

The scheme also aims to strengthen Odisha’s innovation ecosystem by establishing Innovation Hubs, preparing an innovation roadmap and supporting young and grassroots innovators. It seeks to improve the quality and relevance of research by enhancing linkages between academia, research institutions and industry.

Functioning under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Odisha, the State Council on Science and Technology will work towards integrating science, technology and innovation for socio-economic development, while building a skilled workforce through focused support for education and training in basic and applied sciences.