Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken a major step toward transforming the state into a leading hub for science, technology, and innovation by officially rolling out the Uttarakhand Science, Technology & Innovation Policy 2026.
The policy, introduced by the Information Technology, Suraj and Science & Technology Department, aims to position Uttarakhand as a knowledge-driven economy while addressing local challenges through advanced technological solutions.
Vision: Transforming Uttarakhand into a Knowledge and Tech Hub
The newly launched policy focuses on making Uttarakhand a national leader in science, research, and innovation. It emphasizes:
- Strengthening research and scientific thinking
- Promoting economic growth through innovation
- Ensuring social inclusion and environmental balance
- Supporting the vision of a self-reliant Uttarakhand
The government aims to integrate modern technology with governance, agriculture, healthcare, disaster management, and employment generation.
High-Level Institutional Framework for Implementation
To ensure effective execution, the state government will establish a high-level advisory body responsible for:
- Policy implementation
- Monitoring and evaluation
- Performance review
A separate state-level coordination committee will also be formed to promote Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) units in government departments, PSUs, private companies, and startups.
A decentralized institutional system will be introduced to extend scientific benefits to remote and rural areas.
Focus on Emerging Technologies and Innovation
The Science, Technology & Innovation Policy 2026 gives top priority to cutting-edge technologies, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Blockchain
- Robotics and Drones
- Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR)
- Space technology
- Biotechnology and Nanotechnology
Special focus will also be given to research in food, water, energy security, and disaster management, keeping in view Uttarakhand’s Himalayan geography and vulnerability to natural disasters.
Digital Science Observatory and Data Ecosystem
A key feature of the policy is the creation of a Science, Technology & Innovation Observatory, which will act as a centralized digital database for:
- Government schemes
- Research grants
- Scientific programs
- Innovation incentives
All research data funded through public money will be securely stored in digital format to ensure transparency and accessibility.
Global Access and Intellectual Property Support
Through the Government of India’s “One Nation, One Subscription” initiative, researchers in Uttarakhand will gain access to global scientific archives.
The policy also provides strong support for:
- Patent filing
- Copyright protection
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) assistance for local innovators
This aims to simplify legal procedures and encourage innovation at the grassroots level.
Strengthening Education, Research & Skill Development
The policy includes major reforms in education and research infrastructure, such as:
- New capacity-building programs in academic institutions
- Advanced teacher training centers aligned with NEP
- Strengthening scientific infrastructure in schools and colleges
These initiatives aim to build a strong scientific ecosystem across Uttarakhand.
Science Cities, Labs and Public Engagement
To promote scientific awareness among students and the public, the state will develop:
- Science Cities and Science Centres
- Planetariums and Astronomy Observatories
- Atal Tinkering Labs
- AI Labs and innovation hubs
These facilities will help inspire young minds and encourage participation in science and technology.
Inclusive Growth and Support for Local Innovators
According to officials from Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST), the policy is designed to address challenges such as:
- Climate change
- Natural disasters
- Himalayan ecosystem pressure
The policy ensures inclusive participation of:
- Women
- Rural communities
- Marginalized groups
- Persons with disabilities
CM Dhami’s Vision for a Self-Reliant Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the Science, Technology & Innovation Policy 2026 is a milestone in building a knowledge-based economy for Uttarakhand.
He emphasized that the goal is not just technological expansion but integrating innovation with governance, disaster management, agriculture, healthcare, and employment generation to improve everyday life.
The Science, Technology & Innovation Policy 2026 marks a major shift in Uttarakhand’s development strategy, aiming to transform the state into a modern knowledge and innovation hub. With a strong focus on emerging technologies, research infrastructure, and inclusive growth, the policy is expected to play a key role in shaping the state’s future economy and governance model.
