NITI Aayog suggests reduced ‘core’ grant support for State S&T bodies.

Context:
NITI Aayog has recommended that the Department of Science and Technology (DST) reduce the proportion of core funding (i.e., guaranteed annual grants) to State Science and Technology Councils (SSTCs).

Key Proposals:
-Shift emphasis toward competitive project-based support, rather than relying mainly on core grants.
-Encourage States to mobilize their own resources and secure funding from other sources, including the private sector and multilateral agencies.
-The proposal aims to improve efficiency, accountability, and innovation in State-level science and technology initiatives.
Why this change?
-The proportion of core support to total DST funding rose from 20.28% in 2016–17 to 60.62% in 2021–22.
-This growth has crowded out funds available for new or competitive projects.
-NITI Aayog suggests that reducing core grants will free up money for broader R&D and development priorities.
Outcome Sought:
-Make the funding environment more dynamic and competitive.
-Encourage States to align with national priorities and secure diverse funding sources.