According to you, what is the role of NITI Aayog in catalysing  science-based entrepreneurship?

One of the objectives of NITI Aayog is to create a knowledge,  innovation and entrepreneurial support system through a  collaborative community of national and international experts,  practitioners and other partners. More broadly, we design  strategic and long-term policy, programme frameworks and  initiatives, and monitor their progress and efficacy. The Atal  Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, is a one of its kind  intervention by Government of India to foster the spirit of  innovation and entrepreneurship in India. The AIM-PRIME  programme is its strategic initiative to promote science-based  entrepreneurship. 

What are some of the ways in  which NITI Aayog is encouraging  science-based entrepreneurship?

Through AIM, NITI Aayog  has created an ecosystem of  entrepreneurship in universities,  research institutions and private  and MSME sectors by establishing  more than 68 Atal Incubation  Centers (AICs) across the country.  These AICs support the incubated  start-ups by providing technical  facilities, resource-based support,  mentorships, funding support,  partnerships, networks, co-working  spaces, and lab facilities. AIM  has also launched more than  24 Atal New India Challenges in  partnership with different ministries  and departments of the central  government to create product and  service innovations having national  socio-economic impact.

What is your message to the  scientists interested in creating  societal impact based on their  research?

India needs indigenously  developed technologies that keep  it on its path towards sustainable  growth while ensuring national  resilience. NITI Aayog is working  with various stakeholders to define  clear policies to accelerate the pace  of adoption of new technologies  and ensure resource security. As  scientists take their research from  lab to market, they should engage  with us as early as possible to  develop the right policy and  regulatory environment to facilitate  their broader adoption.  

I am delighted to share the  enthusiasm and energy of these  scientists working to developing  world-class innovations and look  forward to working with them  to create a conducive policy  environment for their success.