Science, IT, and Communications Schemes, DST schemes, NCSTC Project Proposal

Science, IT, and Communications Schemes are created to take India ahead in innovation capacity, digital infrastructure, and more. These schemes are planned and introduced to support research, public outreach, digital access, and technology-driven development. 

Over the years Government has continued to expand these programs in 2025 to ensure that science and technology can reach every region. This expansion also helps students, researchers, and institutions to access training and funding opportunities. These Science, IT, and Communications schemes work closely to boost research areas. Here is the complee detail about the policies and schemes that has helped in this process. 

Science, IT, and Communications Schemes Overview

Science, IT, and Communications Schemes include multiple programmes that support scientific research, digital networks, knowledge sharing, and communication outreach. They aim to strengthen education, innovation, and public understanding of science. Many of these programmes involve the National Council for Science and Technology Communication, state science councils, and different DST units.

In 2025, the schemes focus on improving digital connections, expanding research funding, and increasing public awareness activities. They also work to support innovation among students and young researchers. Some schemes support training programmes for science communication, while others provide financial assistance for research projects. The schemes also include activities related to the learnings from the National Science Congress 2024. 

What is DST and DST Scheme?

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is a major government body that supports scientific research and innovation activities in India. Many Science, IT, and Communications Schemes are managed under DST.

DST schemes offer project support, research funding, innovation grants, fellowship programmes, and communication-based initiatives. The aim is to promote scientific thinking, research culture, and digital growth.
Major components of DST schemes include:

• Research grants for scientists

• Innovation funding for new ideas

• Women scientist programmes

• Training for science communication

• Support for young researchers

• Capacity-building programmes

All proposals are submitted through the updated DST project proposal format, which includes objectives, methodology, financial estimates, and a work plan.

What is the National Science and Technology Council India?

The National Science and Technology Council India coordinates national-level policies on science and technology. It ensures that Science, IT, and Communications Schemes work together to achieve long-term goals.
The council focuses on:

• Science policy planning

• Priority areas in research

• Coordination between ministries

• Monitoring national missions

• Strengthening state-level science council

The council works with institutions across India to create an environment that supports research and communication. It also collaborates with state bodies such as the Council of Science and Technology, Uttar Pradesh and other state S&T councils to ensure uniform implementation of programmes.

Understanding NCSTC Project Proposal

The National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) leads many science communication activities. The NCSTC works to improve public engagement with science. It uses awareness programmes, festivals, training workshops, and media projects for this purpose.
The NCSTC project proposal process allows organisations, educators, and communication professionals to submit ideas for science outreach.
A typical NCSTC proposal includes:

• Project background

• Target audience

• Communication tools

• Expected outcome

• Timeline of activities

• Financial requirements

Selected proposals receive support for awareness events, district-level campaigns, exhibitions, and science writing initiatives. NCSTC also incorporates themes highlighted in the National Science Congress 2024, including emerging technologies, climate awareness, and public understanding of research.

List of Science, IT, and Communications Schemes 

Below is the updated list of Science, IT, and Communications Schemes active in 2025. The list includes national programmes, digital missions, research funding plans, and communication outreach schemes.

Benefits of Science, IT, and Communications Schemes

Science, IT, and Communications Schemes offer many important benefits for individuals and institutions. Listed below are key benefits that are included: 

1. Better Research Support: Funding from dst schemes and council programmes gives researchers access to tools, labs, and technical resources.

2. Stronger Science Communication: NCSTC activities help spread scientific awareness. They improve public understanding of research and technology.

3. Digital Infrastructure Expansion: Science, IT, and Communications Schemes support digital networks such as BharatNet and the National Knowledge Network.

4. Skill and Capacity Development: Students and young professionals receive training under various programmes, including communication workshops and research fellowships.

5. Strong Link Between Centre and States: Bodies like the National Science and Technology Council India, and state councils improve coordination. The Council of Science and Technology, Uttar Pradesh, is an example of effective state-level support.

6. Inclusive Growth: Women scientists, young innovators, and rural students receive support, making the schemes accessible to all groups.