Research work by women

The Ministry of Science and Technology has been implementing various schemes with a view to empowering women with inputs of science and technology namely “Science & Technology for women” scheme of the Department of Science & Technology, “Biotechnology based rural and women development programme” of the Department of Bio technology and “Technology development and utilization programme for women” of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. The broad objectives of these schemes are to promote development and adaptation of appropriate technology, transfer proven technologies through capacity building and skill development. To encourage women scientists, a Fellowship scheme for women scientists has been launched in the year 2002. Under this scheme, around 200 fellowships are awarded every year to outstanding women scientists in the following categories: Basic and applied sciences, application of Science & Technology for developmental issues in rural areas and application of Science & Technology in Intellectual Property Rights related self employed opportunities. Government has also set up a Task Force for Women in Science to look into issues pertaining to women scientists.

During the year 2005-06, 48 projects were sanctioned in the technology areas such as women’s health and nutrition, information technology, post harvest technologies, sustainable utilization of natural resources, aquaculture, fodder and feed for animals and bio manures. Women Technology Parks were facilitated at four locations in different agro climatic zones. Projects in similar technology areas with an aim to empower through Science and Technology are being taken up during 2006-07.

A large number of women are benefited directly and indirectly by these schemes in different parts of the country specially in rural areas including tribal and SC populations. These schemes are of a continuing nature and implemented widely all over the county and have spill over effects. Hence it has not been possible to estimate exact number of direct and indirect beneficiaries.

This information was given by the Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Shri Kapil Sibal in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

Source : Press Information Bureau
Date : August 04, 2006