INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy
Chairman’s Message
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma
President, INSA
Chairman, INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy
I am happy to share that the Academy has recently established INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy (INSA-CSTP) for fostering meaningful dialogue, evidence-based research, and strategic scientific governance in India. This Centre was conceived as a dedicated platform to advance science and technology policies that align with India’s rapidly evolving scientific landscape and growing global presence.
The genesis of this Centre was rooted in a vision to build a robust policy architecture for science and technology in India. Our mission is to engage in advisory, advocacy, and research at the highest levels, ensuring that our policy decisions are driven by informed, peer-reviewed insights. The Centre will work towards developing policy instruments, institutional mechanisms, and strategic frameworks that support diverse applications in scientific and research organizations. We will also lead efforts in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Through partnerships with national and international policy practitioners, we aim to influence global and regional science policies. Recently we have signed an MoU for collaboration of Science Policy with IIT Delhi, and several other collaborations are in the offing. Furthermore, INSA-CSTP has recently secured funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to establish a DST-Centre for Policy Research. Our work is aligned with India’s national missions and is designed to enhance the impact of Indian institutions globally. As a centre of excellence, we envision shaping the future of Indian science and positioning India as a thought leader in the global scientific community.
I invite you to explore the vast contributions we aim to make at this Centre and join us in advancing the frontier of science and technology for a more prosperous and equitable world.
(Ashutosh Sharma)
Senior Consultant’s Message
Dr. Akhilesh Gupta
Senior Consultant, INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy
Welcome to INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy, where we strive to shape the future of India’s science and technology ecosystem. Our Centre is dedicated to fostering informed, evidence-based policies that can address emerging challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving world of science and innovation.
As the Head of the STIP 2020 Secretariat, I had the honour of leading a dedicated team of 26 individuals in drafting the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) 2020. This process, characterized by over 450 rounds of stakeholder consultations, was a ground-breaking exercise in inclusivity and decentralized policy-making. Our aim was to ensure that India’s science and technology framework remains dynamic, responsive, and globally competitive, while being inclusive of the voices of all stakeholders—be it scientists, innovators, or the public at large.
Our work at the INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy would focus on driving strategic discourse, providing advisory, and shaping governance frameworks that will support innovation and growth for decades to come. Together, we will contribute towards building a robust scientific landscape that empowers not only our nation but also strengthens India’s position in the global scientific community.
(Akhilesh Gupta)
Executive Director, INSA
Dr Brajesh Pandey
Coordinator, INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy
It is with immense pride that I welcome you to the INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy, a platform dedicated to shaping the science and technology policy landscape of India through evidence-based research, strategic dialogues, and impactful frameworks.
Our Centre was conceived with a clear mandate: to bridge the gap between science, society, and policy by providing robust, actionable insights that inform decision-making at the highest levels. We strive to be a beacon for forward-thinking policy research, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to address complex challenges and unlocking new opportunities for innovation and growth in India’s scientific ecosystem.
At the heart of our mission lies a commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equity. By engaging with a wide array of stakeholders, including policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and civil society, we ensure that our work reflects the needs and aspirations of a dynamic and diverse nation. Our focus extends beyond national boundaries, as we actively collaborate with global partners to position India as a thought leader in science and technology governance.
Our goal is to create a resilient, forward-looking policy environment that empowers institutions, strengthens the research and innovation ecosystem, and catalyzes the transition of ideas into actionable outcomes. I invite you to join us in this journey of transformation, as we work to create a policy ecosystem that not only meets the demands of today but anticipates the needs of tomorrow. Together, we can ensure that India’s science and technology policies are not only globally competitive but also aligned with the aspirations of a more inclusive and sustainable future.
INSA- Centre for Science & Technology Policy (INSA-CSTP)
The INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy (INSA-CSTP) was established in 2024 with the broad objectives of (i) providing advisory, advocacy, and research on science policy and strategic scientific governance, and (ii) fostering engagement in international scientific and technological discourse. The Centre is dedicated to developing policy instruments that enable institutional mechanisms and strategies for diverse applications within scientific research organizations and technological innovation systems, while ensuring a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Centre benefits from the guidance of an expert advisory group, comprising INSA fellows and prominent figures in the science policy domain, who contribute to decision-making on various administrative, research, and funding matters.
At the core of our mission is a commitment to enhancing India’s scientific infrastructure, promoting innovation, and supporting the development of policies that address contemporary challenges and future opportunities. The Centre acts as a hub for interdisciplinary research, bringing together experts from a wide range of fields to collaborate on policy frameworks that are both scientifically rigorous and socially relevant.
Aligned with INSA’s vision of utilizing scientific knowledge for the betterment of humanity, the Centre advocates for evidence-based policy decisions, nurtures scientific talent, and actively engages with global scientific communities. Through these efforts, we aim to contribute to a resilient, innovative India and position the country as a global leader in science and technology.
INSA-DST-CPR
The INSA-DST-Centre for Policy Research (INSA-DST-CPR) is a collaborative initiative between the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) aimed at fostering evidence-based science policy research and strategic governance. This center serves as a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and experts from various fields to address critical challenges in science, technology, and innovation. By developing robust policy frameworks and promoting informed decision-making, the INSA-DST-CPR plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s scientific landscape and advancing the nation’s global leadership in science and technology.
CSTP Team
The INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy (INSA-CSTP) is dedicated to advance advisory, advocacy, and research in science policy and strategic governance while engaging in international scientific and technological discourse. It focuses on transformative and exponential technology, sustainable development; S&T based start-ups and entrepreneurship, diversity and inclusion, science-society interaction and science diplomacy. By collaborating with both national and international institutions, the Centre will provide informed guidance on pressing scientific and technological challenges, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Climate Change, STI interventions in Agriculture, Health, Energy, ESG, and Waste Processing with special emphasis on electronics and plastic.
Key activities of the INSA-CSTP will include conducting: policy impact assessments to evaluate existing policies and their effectiveness, producing policy briefs and summaries with actionable recommendations for decision-makers, and organizing capacity building initiatives to enhance the skills of key stakeholders in science and technology governance. The Centre will host stakeholder engagement forums to facilitate cross-sector dialogues and offer policy implementation guidance for supporting the rollout of new policies. A digital knowledge-sharing portal will be developed to host publications, policy briefs, and foster collaboration.
In its first year, the INSA-CSTP will publish thematic white papers and conduct internationally relevant research, particularly in the areas of AI regulations, climate change, sustainable energy systems, and STI-driven advancements in agriculture and health. The Centre will also roll out a podcast series on science policy, host webinars and workshops, and develop policy frameworks for some key policy initiatives. Additionally, the INSA-CSTP will actively engage with global forums, such as the G20 and BRICS, contributing to international STI policy discussions.
The Centre will also focus on creating an international network of policy practitioners to collaborate on India’s science policy and contribute to global policy discourse. Through these efforts, the INSA-CSTP will drive policy innovation, strengthen governance, and promote international collaboration in science and technology.
Northeast Startup & Entrepreneurs Conclave 2024, NECTAR-INSA (27th – 28th March, 2024)
The Northeast Startup & Entrepreneurs Conclave 2024, organized by NECTAR, showcased the dynamic startup ecosystem of the Northeast, bringing together key stakeholders to foster investment, innovation, and connectivity. INSA played a pivotal role as one of the organizing partners, contributing significantly to the event’s success. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President of INSA, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainable development into enterprise growth. INSA led a thought-provoking panel discussion on fostering innovation through Science & Technology and sparked insightful dialogue with a Fireside Chat and White Paper discussion on the region’s S&T policy needs for entrepreneurship and sustainability.
One-day Brainstorming Session on Transforming India’s STI Ecosystem (22nd May, 2024)
The “One-day Brainstorming Session on Transforming India’s STI Ecosystem” held at INSA, Delhi, on 22nd May focused on building a sustainable future through a dynamic and engaging discussion. The session explored six critical sub-themes: Research & Innovation, Equity and Inclusion, Technology Translation, International Cooperation, Interconnectedness, and Science Communication. With the participation of 45 leading policy experts and young researchers, the event aimed to drive forward-thinking strategies to enhance India’s Science, Technology, and Innovation landscape.
Roundtable on Enhancing FLFPR Hosted by Wommenovator and YFLO (5th July, 2024)
INSA and Womennovator, under the leadership of Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, successfully hosted a roundtable discussion focused on boosting the Female Labor Force Participation Ratio (FLFPR). The event united leaders from academia, policy, and industry to explore strategies for enhancing women’s workforce participation in India. Key contributions from Womennovator Founder Tripti Singhal Somani, Dr. Payal Kanodia, and Ms. Kanta Singh highlighted the need for a supportive ecosystem for women’s career transitions.
Two Day Inter-University Academic Brainstorming Event, Kashmir (23rd -24th August, 2024)
The “Two Day Inter-University Academic Brainstorming Event” on sustainable development through innovation and the startup ecosystem, hosted by SKAUST University, featured significant contributions from INSA. Prof. N. K. Mehra, Vice President (International Affairs) INSA, addressed the impact of climate change and antimicrobial resistance on human health, emphasizing the need for healthcare innovation. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President of INSA, highlighted the importance of advancing research infrastructure and fostering innovation among young students and women, particularly in agriculture, health, and environmental conservation. The event’s session on “Young Scientists and Women in Science,” chaired by Prof. Sharma, focused on balancing the energy of young scientists with the wisdom of experienced researchers, driving meaningful dialogue and a push for change.
One-day Workshop on Systems Thinking for Technology and Policy (30th August, 2024)
The INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DST), successfully organized a one-day workshop titled “Systems Thinking for Technology and Policy” on 30th August 2024 at INSA, New Delhi. The workshop provided a vital platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, focusing on the importance of systems thinking in tackling complex socio-technical challenges. Experts from premier academic institutions, government bodies, and industry gathered to explore the interconnectedness of economic, social, and technical systems, discussing innovative approaches to issues such as sustainable transport solutions, One Health to combat antibiotic resistance, and the establishment of Centres for Systems Thinking (CSTs) across India’s leading universities. The event fostered collaboration and introduced strategic frameworks that integrate systems thinking into technology and policy, paving the way for future-oriented solutions.
Bilateral meeting between INSA and the Royal Society, UK on fostering collaborations and creating influential policy conversations (25th November, 2024)
INSA and the Royal Society held a bilateral meeting on November 25th, 2024, to promote collaborations and create influential policy discussions. The meeting was held at the Royal Society headquarters, London and was led by Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, INSA, and Sir Adrian Smith, President, the Royal Society, ahead of the 5th Yusuf Hamied Royal Society Workshop for India and the UK (November 26th –27th, 2024, London, UK). Strategic planning, empowering young scientists, sustainability, ESG compliance, artificial intelligence, scientific publishing, and tailored large language models for research were among the main highlights of the meeting. The productive dialogue from this meeting marks a step forward in advancing global science and innovation.
Technical session on “Science Beyond Borders: Policies, Opportunities, and Challenges”
At IISF 2024 (30th November- 3rd December, 2024), during the thematic event Global S&T Alliance, Professor Ashutosh Sharma, President, INSA, chaired the technical session on “Science Beyond Borders: Policies, Opportunities, and Challenges”. The session explored the role of international partnerships in advancing scientific research, emphasizing how collaborations foster knowledge sharing, resource utilization, and diverse perspectives. Professor Sharma posed thought-provoking questions about the role of policies in enabling effective collaborations and addressed the institutional challenges and achievements in building global science alliances. Speakers shared insights on leveraging partnerships to solve global challenges, highlighting the importance of resource sharing, capacity building, and inclusive frameworks. Professor Sharma’s leadership guided the dialogue, reaffirming the transformative power of international collaborations in advancing science and technology for societal benefit.
INSA’s 91st Foundation Day: Panel Discussion on “The Role of Scientific Academies in Policy Advice & Advocacy” (7th January, 2025)
On January 7th, 2025, INSA’s 91st Foundation Day, the INSA-Centre for Science & Technology Policy hosted a prominent panel discussion on “The Role of Scientific Academies in Policy Advice & Advocacy.” Distinguished experts participated in thought-provoking discussions about the ways by which scientific academies might become more active and powerful in tackling contemporary challenges. The conversation emphasized the increasing necessity for academies to enhance their influence on advocacy and policy in order to make a more significant contribution to society and science. The panelists discussed the evolving responsibilities of the science academies in different aspects including (i) Scaffolding the large space between science and policy, (ii) Fostering inclusivity and diversity in scientific discourses, (iii) Understanding how academies help policymakers to mitigate risks associated with scientific and technological advancements, (iv) Facilitating international collaboration by science academies & enabling scientists to share knowledge, expertise, and resources, (v) Addressing critical global challenges & working together to address climate change, pandemics & misinformation, (vi) Science policy capacity building where academies may help build capacity for science policy development, supporting the growth of science policy expertise in government, academia, and industry. As per the consensus of the panel, by leveraging expertise and credibility, science academies can play a vital role in promoting evidence-based policymaking, advancing scientific knowledge towards a sustainable development altogether.
Conference on Transforming the “Thar Ecoregion through Startups, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development (THRIVE 2025)” at IIT Jodhpur (19th– 21st March 2025)
The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, in partnership with the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the International Society for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (ISEES), hosted the THRIVE 2025, an international conference to address global sustainability challenges with a special focus on the Thar region. The event aimed to bring together startups, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, policymakers, and academia to foster innovation, collaboration, and actionable solutions.
Chief Guest Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, highlighted the strategic importance of transforming the region. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, INSA, stressed the need for disruptive yet balanced solutions, while Prof. Avinash Kumar Agarwal, Director, IIT Jodhpur, emphasized interdisciplinary research. Dr. Akhilesh Gupta, Former Secretary, SERB, reflected on sustainability in fragile ecosystems. Dr. Brajesh Pandey, Executive Director, INSA, and Dr. Kinkini Dasgupta Mishra, Scientist-F, INSA, co-chaired sessions on sustainability in business and Indigenous Arts, Skills, Heritage, Tourism and Sustainability, respectively. The event concluded with a commitment to establishing the Thar region as a hub for sustainable development and entrepreneurial excellence.
Workshop on Navigating PhD and Beyond at IIT Kanpur during 30-31, 2024
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), in collaboration with the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the American Chemical Society (ACS), organized a unique workshop titled “Navigating PhD and Beyond” on December 30-31, 2024, at IIT Kanpur. The event aimed to empower PhD students with essential knowledge and skill sets that are critical for their research productivity, and overall well-being. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President of INSA, delivered an inspiring talk titled “Shaping Up Culture and Behaviour.” In his address, Prof. Sharma celebrated India’s growing prominence in research and innovation while encouraging young researchers to embrace originality, collaboration, and purpose-driven work.
Workshop on Navigating PhD and Beyond at IIT Jodhpur on January 27, 2025
The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IITJ), in collaboration with the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the American Chemical Society (ACS), organized a second workshop in the series titled “Navigating PhD and Beyond” on January 27, 2025, at IIT Jodhpur. The event addressed critical aspects of professional and personal development for early-stage researchers, enabling them to maximize their potential during their PhD journey and beyond. The workshop aimed to instil PhD scholars with skills and knowledge that would help them in navigating the challenges of their academic journey. The event covered critical areas like research purpose and hypothesis development, sustainability in research, scientific writing and effective communication, ethics in research, and career pathways.
Bharat Intelligence Summit, at IIT Alumni Centre, Bengaluru on 26th April 2025
The IIT Kanpur Alumni Association, in collaboration with INSA, organized the Bharat Intelligence Summit, powered by Startup Master Class (SMC), on 26th April 2025 at IIT Alumni Centre, Bengaluru. The summit, themed “India’s Intelligence Sovereignty: Deep Tech, Autonomy & Global GCC Synergy,” brought together India’s leading DeepTech innovators, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), policymakers, and investors with the goal of catalyzing innovation and accelerating Bharat’s leadership in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Salesforce.
INSA policy researchers attended the summit to identify key challenges, gaps, and the way forward in strengthening the start-up and GCC ecosystem. The team conducted interviews with esteemed dignitaries including CEO of Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) and other global GCC leaders, to gather insights and develop evidence-based policy recommendations aimed at reinforcing the DeepTech and innovation landscape in India.
Workshop on “Sustainability of Digital-Cyber World” on 8th May 2025
Kotak School of Sustainability, IIT Kanpur, in partnership with INSA organized a one-day workshop on “Sustainability of Digital-Cyber World”, on 8th May 2025 at the Imperial, New Delhi. The workshop’s objective was to produce actionable insights and meaningful discussions on integrating social, economic, and environmental considerations into the design, development, and use of digital technologies and cyber security practices. Chief Guest, Dr. V. K. Saraswat, Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog, highlighted the dual nature of digitalization, its environmental and societal impacts, and the need for governance and policy innovations to ensure a secure and sustainable digital future. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, INSA, delivered the inaugural address where he emphasized the importance of integrating responsibility and foresight into technological development. He shared insights on the environmental footprint of digital technologies, the role of governance in cyber-physical systems, and the need to assess both direct and indirect impacts of emerging technologies. Prof. Sachchida Nand Tripathi, Dean, Kotak School of Sustainability, IIT Kanpur, spoke about the vision of mainstreaming sustainability into education. Shri S. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman of Axilor Ventures and Co-founder of Infosys, joined virtually as Guest of Honour and reflected on the imperatives for India’s growth, the future of technologies like quantum computing and AI, and the need for inclusive, culturally grounded, and energy-efficient digital solutions.
Key topics discussed in the series of talks and panel discussions were accountability indicators for digital sustainability, the ethical dimensions of digital mental health, decarbonization modelling with AI, and strategies for measuring sustainability in cyberspace. The event encouraged networking opportunities and thought-provoking conversations on Digital Cyber sustainability. Additionally, it provided an excellent forum for students, researchers, academicians, and policymakers to discuss ideas and challenges, and suggest ways for developing a greener, more responsible, and inclusive digital future.
MoU with IIT-Delhi:
INSA has entered into a significant partnership with IIT Delhi by signing an MoU to advance research and strategic initiatives in science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy. This collaboration is designed to explore and implement ways to better utilize and shape STI efforts to address contemporary challenges and sustainably strengthen the broader STI enterprise. A key focus of this partnership is the expansion of training and mentoring opportunities for young research scholars in STI policy, fostering a new generation of experts equipped to navigate the complexities of this dynamic field. Additionally, the initiative will facilitate extensive outreach, knowledge sharing, and professional development activities, promoting a deeper understanding and application of STI policy frameworks. By enhancing engagement between INSA and IIT Delhi, this MoU reinforces the commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and establishes a robust platform for innovation and thought leadership in the STI domain.
DST-CPR
MoU with RIS
INSA and the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on April 10, 2025, to advance policy research and strategic thinking in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). This collaboration is designed to bridges science, policy, and diplomacy, and leverage INSA and RIS strengths to shape impactful STI policy. The initiative will act as a catalyst for INSA and RIS to- (i) collaborate on research, projects, and inclusive innovation studies; (ii) engage with government bodies and global institutions for policy dialogue; (iii) build capacity through training and mentoring of young professionals; (iv) conduct joint outreach activities, conferences, and dialogues; and (v) strengthen institutional ties via co-publications and policy briefs. By enhancing engagement between INSA and RIS, this MoU reinforces the commitment for impactful outcomes that amplify India’s global STI policy leadership.
Science20 (S20) Communique
1. Report on INSA-AASSA Symposium on ‘Science Policy Futures for Asia’ by INSA. September 2024. https://www.interacademies.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/INSA_collated.pdf
2. India’s scientific potential: Breaking barriers to breakthroughs. Ashutosh Sharma, Dhananjay Tiwary. https://www.hindustantimes.com/ht-insight/governance/indias-scientific-potential-breaking-barriers-to-breakthroughs-101731398051620.html November 12, 2024 (Article)
3. Science Policy Futures of Asia (INSA-AASSA POLICY BRIEF). Narinder Mehra, Ashutosh Sharma, Pranav Sharma* (*Corresponding author) December 2024 https://www.interacademies.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Science%20Policy%20Futures%20of%20Asia_INSA_AASSA_Policy%20Brief%206%20Dec.pdf
4. Science Beyond Borders: Policies, Opportunities, and Challenges. Famida Khan*, Jyotesna Maurya. Science Diplomacy. Vol 8 (3); p46-49 (*Corresponding author) https://niscpr.res.in/includes/images/sciencediplomacy/Science-Diplomacy-January-March-2025.pdf (Report)
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