Science Communication in India: Policy Framework

Abstract

Science and technology in modern India cannot be discussed without referring to the discourse that is rooted in the debate initiated by the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (1947-1964). The science and technology policy documents that followed and articulated the vision of India, were Scientific Policy Resolution (SPR-1958), Technology Policy Statement (TPS-1983), Science and Technology Policy (STP-2003) and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STI-2013). These documents envisioned, articulated and codified aspirations, objectives and strategies to mark the role of science and technology in the nation building. The notion of ‘scientific-temper’, as proposed through the Indian constitution, has to be fostered relentlessly to keep the social ethos in sync with modern scientific knowledge. The policy frame-work of science and technology in India, enunciated from time to time has continuously empowered the stakeholders to intensify science popularisation.