PARLIAMENT OF INDIA RAJYA SABHA

DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT &

FORESTS ONE HUNDRED-SEVENTIETH REPORT

ON DEMANDS FOR GRANTS (2007-2008)

OF THE DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY)

(DEMAND NO. 81)

(PRESENTED TO HON’BLE CHAIRMAN, RAJYA SABHA ON 24th APRIL, 2007) (FORWARDED TO HON’BLE SPEAKER, LOK SABHA ON 24th APRIL, 2007

(PRESENTED TO RAJYA SABHA ON 26TH APRIL, 2007) (LAID ON THE TABLE OF LOK SABHA ON 26TH APRIL, 2007)

RAJYA SABHA SECRETARIAT NEW DELHI

APRIL, 2007/ VAISAKHA, 1929 (SAKA) C O N T E N T S

1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE 2. INTRODUCTION 3. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE

4. SUMMARY OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS 5. MINUTES OF THE MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE

COMPOSITION OF THE DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY,

ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (YEAR 2006) ----------

1. Shri P.G. Narayanan –– Chairman RAJYA SABHA

2. Dr.Prabha Thakur #3. Vacant 4. Shri Suryakantbhai Acharya 5. Shri Bhagirathi Majhi 6. Shri Kamal Akhtar 7. Shri Saman Pathak 8. Shri Jabir Husain

# Smt.Viplove Thakur ceased to be a Member of the Committee w.e.f. 30th November, 2006

9. Shri Ravula Chandra Sekar Reddy 10. Dr. Barun Mukherjee

LOK SABHA

11. Shri Jashubhai Dhanabhai Barad

12. Dr. Sujan Chakraborty 13. Shri Thupstan Chhewang 14. Shri Pankaj Chaudhary 15. Shri Francis Fanthome 16. Shri Babubhai K. Katara 17. Shri A. Venkatesh Naik 18. Shri Brahmananda Panda 19. Smt. Neeta Pateriya 20. Shri Jaysingrao Gaikwad Patil 21. Shri Pratik Prakashbapu Patil 22. Shri Bachi Singh ‘Bachda’ Rawat 23. Shri K.C. Singh “Baba” 24. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh 25. Shri Rakesh Singh 26. Shri Aruna Kumar Vundavalli 27. Smt. Jayaben B. Thakkar 28. Shri Akhilesh Yadav 29. Shri Mitrasen Yadav 30. Shri Sita Ram Yadav

*31. Shri Rampal Singh SECRETARIAT

Shri R.K. Singh, Officer on Special Duty Shri Alok Kumar Chatterjee, Deputy Secretary Shri Jagmohan Sundriyal, Under Secretary

Shri S. Rangarajan, Committee Officer INTRODUCTION

I, the Chairman of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment & Forests, having been authorised by the Committee to present the Report on its behalf, present this One Hundred-seventieth report Report of the Committee. This Report deals with the detailed Demands for Grants (2007-2008) of the Department of Science & Technology (Demand No.81). 2. In the meeting of the Committee held on the 3rd April, 2007 the Secretary and other Officers of the Department of Science & Technology gave an overview of the various activities of the Department and the Members sought clarifications on various aspects of the performance of the Department to enable it to scrutinise the Demands for Grants.

* Shri Rampal Singh Nominated to the Committee w.e.f. 8th December, 2006.

3. The Committee expresses its thanks to the Officers of the Department for replying to the clarifications sought by the Members and placing before it the required material to enable the Committee to scrutinise the Demands for Grants of the Department of Science & Technology. 4. The Committee considered and adopted the Report at its meeting held on the 20th April, 2007. NEW DELHI; April 20, 2007

P.G.NARAYANAN Chairman,

Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science &

Technology, Environment & Forests.

REPORT The Department of Science & Technology (DST) was established in May, 1971 with the

primary objective of promoting new areas of Science and Technology and to play the role of a nodal department for organizing, co-ordinating and promoting S&T activities in the country. The mandate given to DST includes among others:

• Formulation of policy statements and guidelines on S&T • Promotion of new areas of scientific research • Co-ordination of inter-departmental S&T efforts • Support basic and applied researches in universities and other institutions • International S&T Co-operation • Support high quality researches in autonomous bodies where specialization ranges from

advanced medical research materials to astronomy. • Catalyzing S&T interaction in societal programmes, and entrepreneurship development • Science popularisation, communication and S&T Management Information System • Promotion of Commercialisation of home grown technology • Support to technology development programmes, technology information and assessment • Providing services in the areas of:

1. Surveying & Mapping (SOI and NATMO) 2. Technology Development and Application (TDB)

2. In consonance with its philosophy of fostering and promoting science and technology, the Government of India has assumed major responsibility of supporting S&T activities in the country. Over the years, the investments in S&T sector have stepped up significantly. From an allocation of Rs. 349 crores in the Seventh Plan to the Department of Science and Technology, the investments have gone up to Rs. 1192 crores in Eight Plan and Rs. 1497 crores in the Ninth Plan. A provision for Rs. 3400 crores has been made in the Tenth Plan. Provision proposed in the Annual Plan 2007-2008 is Rs. 1526 crores. 3. Recent initiatives

• Mission mode programme on seisomology. • National Mission on Bambo Applications. • A major programme on drugs and pharmaceutical research & development. • Nano Science & Technology Initiatives (NSTI) • Setting -up of Instrument Development Board.

• Strengthening National Innovation Foundation to promote grass root level invention` • Women Scientists Scholarship Scheme. • Swarnajayanti Fellowships for outstanding young scientists • Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure (FIST) in universities and related institutions • Kishore Vigyanik Protsahan Yojana. • Technopreneur Promotion Program (TePP). • Institution of India Science Award. • Establishing high performance computing network facilities for research purposes • Executing Joint Technology Development projects with industry and socio-economic

Ministries • Modernizing autonomous research institutions • Setting up of a National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration (NABL) • Setting up a Patent Facilitating Cell to provide support to scientists and technologists on

all aspects of patenting. • Creation of Technology Business Incubators. • Institution of Ramanujan Fellowship Scheme to attract brilliant scientists and engineers

from across the world to take up scientific research positions in the country. • National Training programme for Scientists and Technologists working with the

Government of India. 4. Budgetary Allocations The Budgetary Estimates of the Department of Science & Technology for the year 2007-2008 are placed at Rs.1775.00 crores (Plan Rs.1526.00 crores and Non-Plan Rs.249.00 crores) compared to last year’s B.E. and R.E. of Rs.1746.00 crores and Rs.1177.00 crores respectively. The Committee has been informed that the projected demand of the Department for Plan BE 2007-08 was Rs.2750.00 crores. 5. The Committee has been further informed that The percentage increase in BE 2007-08 as compared to B.E 2006-07 is 1.7% i.e. from Rs.1746.00 crores (Plan = Rs.1340.00 crores and Non-Plan = Rs.406.00 crores) to Rs.1775.00 crores (Plan = Rs.1526.00 crores and Non–Plan = Rs.249.00 crores). However, it needs to be mentioned that the outlay of Rs.1746.00 crores for 2006-07 included Rs.266.20 crores being the outlays approved for India Meteorological Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, whereas the outlay of Rs.1775.00 crores for 2007-08 does not include the outlays for these institutions. The outlay for 2006-2007 net of outlays for IMD, NCMRWF and IITM was RS.1479.80 crores and with reference to this the percentage increase in outlay for 2007-08 is 19.90%. The new schemes /projects proposed for the year 2007-08 are as follows: SL. NO. NAME OF THE SCHEME / PROJECT / PROGRAMME BE 2007-08

(Rs. in crores) 1 SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING RESEARCH BOARD 100.00

2 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SCIENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION (OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION) 100.00

3 WATER TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE 5.00

4 INNOVATIONS IN SCIENCE PURSUIT FOR INSPIRED RESEARCH (INSPIRE) 10.00

5 INNOVATION CLUSTERS 5.00

6 SECURITY TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE 10.00 7 MEGA FACILITIES FOR BASIC RESEARCH 25.00

6. On the projected demand of the Department of Science and Technology for B.E. 2006-07 and whether the allocated funds were sufficient for carrying out the activities of the Department, the Committee has been apprised that the projected demand of the Department for Plan BE 2007-08 was Rs.2750.00 crores. After two rounds of discussion with the Planning Commission, the demand was reduced to Rs.1476.00 crores and finally pegged at Rs.1526.00 crores. The projected demand for Non-Plan BE 2007-08 was Rs.249.00 crores and the same has been allocated. No scheme/project will be affected or discontinued as the activities will be suitably phased over the XIth Five Year Plan. 6.1 The approved outlay for the Department in the Tenth Five Year Plan was Rs.3400.00 crores. The actual expenditure in the first four years of the Tenth Five Year Plan 2002-2006)& the Revised Estimates for the year 2006-2007 is Rs.4013.95 crores. The Committee was informed that the Department has projected two alternate proposals for outlays of Rs.19,300.00 crores and Rs.30,460.00 crore for the XIth Five Year Plan. However, the XIth Five Year Plan outlays have not yet been finalized. 7. ACHIEVEMENTS DURING THE 10TH PLAN

Department of Science & Technology has been playing a pivotal role in the promotion of science & technology in the country including basic research and technological development in the public funded institutes. Some of the important programmes and their achievements during the 10th Plan of Department of Science and Technology (DST) were: 7.1 Science And Engineering Research Council (SERC)

The Department of Science & Technology has emerged as the major and critical department supporting Extra Mural Research (EMR) with 40-44% share of the EMR funding provided in the country. Some outstanding examples of advanced research facilities created during the 10th Plan are: (i) National Facility for High Field NMR at TIFR; (ii) Non-Destructing Evaluation(NDE) facility at NML and IIT, Chennai (iii) NMR facility for Biological research at IISC, Bangalore etc. 7.2 Nano Science and Technology

The projects during the 10th Plan under Nano Science & Technology initiative was largely basic research oriented. R&D on nano technology was practically non-existent in the medium and large sized Indian companies. Therefore, promotional efforts were required to establish and consolidate this area of research in India. 7.3 Autonomous Institutions

Autonomous Institutions supported by the Department have performed well during the 10th Plan period. The aggregated average performance impact factors per paper for all institutions have been in the range of 2.3, while some institutions have shown values of the order of 3.3 with an average output of 6 paper per scientist. 7.4 Science Communication

The Department has been actively spreading the excitement of careers with science among the young population of India with a view to attract talents for career with science. The various events organized include a) National Children Science Congress, b) National Teacher’s Science Conference, c) Steer the Big Idea – DST - CII Collaborative Programme, d)Year of Physics/Planet earth, e) Vigyan Mail etc.

7.5 Drug and Pharmaceutical Development Programmes The Department has been entrusted with the responsibility for promoting and supporting

drugs and pharmaceutical research in the country through special drive during the 10th Plan. This objective has been fulfilled by creating national facilities in the field of Regulatory toxicology, Proteomics, Pharmacokinetic Evaluation, Biosafety Facility both at level 3 and level 4 at various national academic institutions etc. In all 82 projects were supported under the 10th Plan which include national facilities and research projects on diseases like AIDS, TB, Diabetes, Leucoderma etc. 7.6 International Cooperation

Several new programmes have been launched during the 10th Plan period. They include: Indo-Israel Industrial R&D Cooperation, Indo-Russian Technology Centre, Indo-UK Science and Innovation Council, Indo-Russian S& T Cooperation. Indo-Canadian S&T Cooperation etc. 7.7 Technology Development Programmes including Entrepreneurship Development

DST has been active promoter of entrepreneurship development based on technology led incubators. Some important initiatives of DST during 10th Plan have been Technology Business Incubator (TBIs) promoted at IITs, IIMs, NITs, NID, ICRISAT etc. 7.8 Science and Society Programmes

The Science& Society Programmes of DST have been one of the flagship activities of the department. Primary focus of the projects undertaken in science & society programme has been referring of technologies to the social context in which the technologies need to perform. 8. TARGETS SET FOR 2007-2008 8.1 Research and Development Support

• Strengthen support to basic research in frontier areas of science and technology e.g. Nano Technology.

• Encouragement to young scientists. • Creation of Centres of Excellence in R&D in Universities and Institutions. • Modernize autonomous S&T institutions and to initiate action for setting up S&T

Institutions in some important and nationally critical area like Glaciology, Molecular Sciences etc.

• Update S&T Management Information System (NSTMIS). • Support to students at school level onwards to take interest in scientific pursuit. • Setting up of Science and Engineering Research Board. • Scholarships in science and higher education. • Innovations in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE). • Innovation clusters. • Mega facilities for basic research.

8.2 Technology Development Financial assistance for commercialization of indigenous technologies through TDB.

Promote R&D in Drugs and Pharmaceuticals through joint projects with the industry. • Provide support to techno-preneurs for developing innovative ideas. • To provide and integrate S&T output with the programmes of socio-economic Ministries. • Technology Vision 2020 Mission Mode Projects. • Water Technology Initiatives.

8.3 S&T Programme for Socio-economic Development 1. Replication of societal initiatives (weaker sections, tribal, women etc.) in co-ordination

with related departments.

2. Encourage S&T entrepreneurship development and employment generation. 3. Science Communication and Popularisation

8.4 International Co-operation Consolidate initiatives in bilateral, regional and multilateral S&T Cooperation Promotion of Centres of excellence for international scientific exchange. Programme to support visit of Indian Scientists for using large-scale research facilities abroad. 8.5 Scientific Services

1. Strengthening of the seismological observatory network. 2. District Planning map series for micro level planning 3. Provide survey and mapping support.

9. PROGRESS MADE DURING 2006-2007 9.1 Science & Engineering Research Council (SERC) The thrust of SERC includes the formulation of many policies aimed at making India a world leader in the generation of new knowledge; planning, promoting and funding of high quality researches in frontier and emerging areas; identification on a real time-basis, major inter-disciplinary, frontier research areas (even futuristic); identify individuals, groups and/or institutions and support; evolution and institution of nationally coordinated programmes in various identified areas so as to network institutions that will have multiplier effect in promoting research; developing systems to assess overall health of Indian Science across disciplines and bring out relevant S&T indicators; encouraging a critical mass – adequate number of bright people – doctoral/post graduate/research students to meet the needs of high quality research; building up excellent infrastructure and environment dedicated to scientific pursuit; exploring synergy between academic institutions, S&T laboratories and industry etc. Facilitation and support of R & D work in laboratories and institutions in the country have resulted in several publications in national and international journals.

When the committee enquired about the fluctuation noticed in ‘Research and Development Support to Multi-disciplinary Research in Science & Technology’regarding Allocation which stood at Rs. 342.50 crores in budget 2006-2007 which jumped to Rs. 359.38 crores during the Revision Stage but has been again reduced to Rs. 346.50 crores in Budget 2007-08, the Committee was informed that the department is committed to the pursuit and promotion of science & technology with vigor in the 11th Five year plan. SERC, which is the single largest basic research funding mechanism in the country across disciplines and across institutions, has intensified the R&D promotional activities through innovative programmes such as Intensification of Research in High Priority Areas (IRHPA), Fund for Improvement of S&T Infrastructure in Universities and Higher Educational Institutions (FIST), FAST Track Young Scientist’s R&D programme and Prestigious Fellowships like J.C Bose, Ramanujan, Ramanna Fellowships, etc. 9.2 National Mission on Nano Science & Technology

The Department has embarked on a National Mission on Nano Science & Technology (Nano Mission) for which an allocation of Rs. 27 cr. was made. Since the proposal is still to obtain approval of the competent authority, the allocation for ‘R&D Support to Multi-disciplinary Research in S&T (SERC Scheme)’ has been enhanced to Rs. 359.38 crores at the RE Stage. The enhancement is primarily to implement R&D in Nanoscience and technology, for which necessary provision has been made in an ongoing programme ‘Nano Science & Technology Initiative (NSTI)’ under the SERC Scheme. Further to note that a separate budget allocation of Rs. 150.0 crore has been made for Nano Mission in 2007-08 and the ongoing NSTI under SERC Scheme

will be merged with the Nano Mission. In effect, the allocation for SERC scheme for other programmes has been enhanced to Rs. 346.50 crore in 2007-2008. 9.3 Nano Science & Technology Initiative (NSTI)

Under its Nano Science & Technology Initiative (NSTI), the Department continued its support for R&D in potential and challenging areas of Nano Science & Technology. In addition to individual research projects, following Centres for Nano Technology were sanctioned during the year: 9.4.1 Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

The Centre would focus at the development of nanodevices based on thin film technologies (self-assembly, LB films), synthesis of molecules (surfactants used for preparing various assemblies) and polymers. A remarkable discovery of induction of electrical signals (voltage / current) in a sample of single-walled carbon nanotube bundles along the direction of flow of various liquids and gases over it was reported in a project being implemented at the Indian Institute of Science. 9.4.2 In another project progressing at Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, a new and interesting method of fabrication of surface tension confined two-dimentional microfluidic devices on glass was reported. The simplicity and low fabrication cost are the strengths of this method. 9.4.3 About the decrease in allocation to ‘National Mission on Nano Science & Nano Technology’ from Rs. 180.00 crores in 2006-07 to Rs. 150.00 crores in 2007-08, the Committee was informed that a new programme ‘National Mission on Nano Science & Technology’ has been allocated Rs. 180.00 crores in the BE stage. Based on the National Consultation on Nano Mission, the Department has prepared the Detailed Proposal which is presently submitted to Cabinet for approval. Since the Nano Mission proposal is still under consideration, additional allocations were made under the SERC scheme to meet nano related S&T activities so that India can become a significant player in the area and contribute to the development of new technologies besides carrying out basic research at the frontiers. 9.4.4 The proposed Mission has many components such as basic research promotion& HRD programmes, Nano Technology Application Programmes which look into Joint Industry-Academia/National Lab R&D Projects, Establishing Nano-Application & Technology Development Centres, Nano-Technology Business Incubators etc., International Collaborations: Joint Centres in specific areas etc. These activities have to be implemented in phases. A Mission Management has to be put in place. Taking note of these, the allocation of Rs. 150 crore will suffice for 2007-08. This modest allocation will not adversely affect the mission in the initial stages. 9.4.5 The Committee desires that the Nano Mission proposal made by the department should be finalised soon. The Committee appreciates India Institute of Science Bangalore and Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati for the breakthroughs made on the respective projects assigned to them. It also desires that such success stories should encourage other institutes to follow suit.

The Committee is of the opinion that futuristic technology based on Nano Science holds an important key to future development in the world of science. In an increasingly interdependent world where the dividing line between academic research and commerce is increasingly getting blurred, futuristic projects like those based on Nano-science can not only raise our living standards but such potential areas can also create wealth for the society. The Committee welcomes the idea of separate budget allocation for Nano-mission in budget 2007-08 as it believes that such a step would help bring the focus back on Nano-research.

10. S&T PROGRAMMES FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (SCIENCE & SOCIETY DIVISION) 10.1 Science & Society Programme 10.2 Progress made during 2006-2007

During 2006-2007, ongoing programmes/projects continued to receive support in different parts of the country focusing on farm & non-farm sector, while, new need based coordinated programmes are being conceived to encourage innovative work and indigenous S&T development at the grassroots level as per details given below: a. Initiatives for new projects/ Programmes through workshops and brainstorming: • Developing a sustainable rural energy model for small& remote villages of the country through

the appropriate technology interventions at select locations. • Projects for Tsunami affected areas. • Initiation of S&T based programme to address the problem of elderly, in order to generate

projects addressing the problems of the elderly in the country b. Continuation and strengthening of integrated and holistic development of model villages

with multi-sectoral and cluster approach. c. Consolidation of replicable technologies developed through earlier projects of Science and

Society Division (SSD). d. Initiation of activities for development of business management strategy for NGOs to bring

their technologies to micro market enterprise level. 10.3 Under this scheme, about thirty five inter-disciplinary projects were supported in farm and non-farm sectors, leading towards capacity building for technological empowerment and sustainable livelihoods. Efforts are being made through a project on developing a management information system for completed projects in order to identify from among these potential projects with best practices, innovations and factors contributing to greater sustainability and replicability for future planning. Rural Technology Parks and Integrated Village Development projects will continue to be supported as integrated and holistic model for development through S&T intervention. 10.4.1 Under a Co-ordinated Programme (CP) on ‘Biological Integration of Farming Activities& Resource Management’ (BIOFARM) for resource poor small farmers, work was done to study the efficacy of the resource integrated mixed farms for improvement in whole farm productivity at the system level in respective locations. In second year of implementation of this programme, work is in progress to study the resource flow and economic efficacy of the experiments being carried out at 15-20 small farmer’s farms at each location by integrating various farming practices/components and sub-components for improvement in whole farm productivity and income. 10.4.2 Another CP on Non-Edible Oils (NEO) will continue to be implemented at nine locations. 10.4.3 Under another innovative programme, Technology Intervention in Mountain Ecosystem (TIME), specific projects will be supported in different mountain regions to improve livelihoods of mountain community by involving them in managing natural resources and through value addition. 10.5 As an ongoing activity, core support is being extended to eleven science based organizations to nurture S & T personnel to take up challenges to work on rural problems and evolving innovative S & T based solutions in areas ranging from natural resource management, housing, renewable energy, agriculture & post harvest processing, rural engineering with a possibility for micro-enterprise development at village level.

10.6.1 For the viability of field testing and adaptation of water filters based on membrane filtration technology, 520 water filter units based on ultra filtration membrane technology developed with DST support by NCL, Pune have been installed in the two States-Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland in collaboration with the respective State Governments and a private manufacturer. 10.6.2 A project has been supported to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH), New Delhi to provide free tertiary consultation to rural population and weaker section of the society by making modern health care available to the population in the target area and setting up 3 medical kiosks at Gohana (Haryana), Dasmal (Himachal Pradesh) and Kota (Rajasthan). 10.7 Budget allocation for various ‘Science & Technology Prgrammes for Socio-Economic Development’ has been increased from Rs. 83.50 crores in Budget 2006-07 to Rs. 109.00 crores in Budget 2007-08. The Department has explained that the enhanced budget will be used for the ongoing activities at a higher level and for new initiatives and programme proposed to be undertaken during the year 2007-08. These would include setting up of rural technology parks and women technology parks, a programme on S & T applications for elderly population, launching of new projects for applying S & T for addressing rural problems through S & T involving students and teachers of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, technology dissemination and replication projects, initial planning for setting up National Foundation for Technology for Rural Enterprises and Employment (TREE), increasing the number of women scientists scholarship, starting a coordinated programme on seaweed cultivation and processing for economically empowering women in coastal areas, development of health and hygiene products for women, integrated development of some villages, predominantly populated with SC community, using S & T inputs and launching of a programme on sustainable livelihood of tribals around protected areas/national parks. 10.8 The Committee is of the opinion that agriculture sector continues to be the Achilles heel of our economy. With very little growth over the years, we are entering the danger zone of increased poverty levels in the rural sector. It is in this context that Science and Society Programme of the Department acquires immense importance. The idea of eleven science based organizations to nurture S & T personnel to take up challenges to work on rural problems and evolving innovative S & T based solutions can go a long way in addressing the failure of agriculture extension services which is one of the reason for slow growth of agriculture. The Committee also expresses its satisfaction on the work done by the Department in field-testing and adaptation of water filter and desires that such projects should be replicated elsewhere. 11. SYNERGY PROJECTS 11.1 Progress made during 2006-2007 11.2 Measures of Impact of S&T in India : Agricultural and Rural Development.

• Analysis of Indian Patenting Activity in International and Domestic Patent System. • Measures of Progress of S&T in India : An Analysis of the Publication Output in Science

& Technology. • A National Energy Map for India- Technology Vision – 2030 • Development of a Bulk Encryption Unit and a Secret Algorithm. • Development of a Readout Integrated Circuit (ROIC) for an 8X8 QWIP array. • Development of Explosive Detector based on the Ion Mobility Spectrometry Technology. • Programme Advisory Committee on Science in Ayurveda has been constituted and six

projects are being considered in December, 2006. Some of them are likely to be sanctioned during current financial year.

• Two projects on R&D related to Machine Tool Sector are also in the final stages of preparation and are likely to be approved before March, 2007.

• Project on converting natural dye to powder form is under progress and will be completed during 2006-07.

• Advanced Facility in Information Security and Cryptology is being established in Chennai. Land has been handed over to Society for Electronics Transactions and Security (SETS) for construction of the building. Construction is likely to commence during January, 2007. The project will continue during the 11th plan period.

11.3 Allocation to various ‘Synergy Projects’ has been reduced from Rs. 20.00 crores at BE stage in 2006-07 to Rs.12.00 crores at RE stage in 2006-07 and further to Rs.10.00 crores in Budget 2007-08. The cause for such reduction as given by the Department is that a major expenditure was envisaged for the project “Advanced Facility in Information Security and Cryptology” (AFISC) being implemented by Society for Electronic Transactions and Security (SETS) at Chennai. However there was a delay in commencement of the project due to land allotted for the facility not being handed over by State Government in time. As a result, the revised estimates for 2006-07 were reduced from Rs. 20.00 crores to Rs. 12.00 crores. The allocation for 2007-08 at B.E. stage has been based on expenditure pattern of 2006-07. However, it is expected that additional allocation will be made available for synergy projects at R.E. stage in the event of additional requirements materializing on account of implementation of the AF ISC project. 11.4 The Committee notes the reasons for the delay in the commencement of project and would like the Department to do its groundwork properly before demanding allocations so that the funds can be optimally utilized in future. 12. INTERNATIONAL S&T COOPERATION 12.1 Objectives 12.2 International Cooperation in Science & Technology mainly facilitates /promotes sharing of expertise and infrastructures for developing knowledge and technologies in a wide range of pure and applied disciplines. This division operates in association with other Scientific Departments and agencies of the Government of India and in close cooperation with the Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Home Affairs, Indian Missions abroad and Foreign Missions in India and is involved in:

a. Formulation and signing of bilateral and multilateral S&T agreements; b. Assessment and evaluation of S&T strengths in other countries; c. Promotion of interaction and building partnership of Indian scientific agencies and

R&D personnel with their counterparts in other countries d. Implementation and promotion of bilateral, regional and multi-lateral cooperation

in S&T through specific Programmes of Cooperation (POC). e. Establishment of Bi-national/multinational S&T centers and implementation of

major R&D programmes. 12.3 Progress made during 2006-2007

• Agreement with Algeria, Canada, Colombia, Iceland, Israel, Maldives, Ukraine, United States.

• New Programme of Cooperation with: Australia, Hungary, Myannmar, Mozambique, South Korea, Poland.

12.4 Allocation for various Programmes for ‘International Co-operation’ has been increased from Rs. 28.50 crores in Budget 2006-07 to Rs. 48.60 crores in Budget 2007-08. The reason for increase in allocation, as provided by the Department, is as follows: the activities under

International S& T Cooperation have expanded in last 2-3 years many fold. New Inter-Governmental S & T Cooperation Agreements have been signed with more than 15 countries including Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Iceland, Ireland, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Norway, USA, S&T Cooperation Agreements were also renewed with Brazil and Ukrain, thus taking the number of Inter-Governmental Agreements with 70 countries. In addition, Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) & Letter of Intent have also been signed with a large number of other agencies. 12.5 In addition, the levels of cooperation have been enhanced with a few countries such as Canada, UK, Australia, Sweden, Switzerland, USA, Israel etc. by establishing higher levels of arrangements with dedicated funds to match the dedicated funds earmarked by the partner countries. 12.6 Further, a number of new initiatives have been launched to support commercial R&D and applied research in a few cases. These include Indo-Israel Fund in Industrial R&D; Indo-Australia Strategic Research Fund; Indo-Swiss Industrial Fund etc. Support to organization of Tech ‘Summits, Tech platforms, Tech. Exhibitions, India R&D Destination etc. is also to be enhanced and encouraged. Collaborative Projects with Scientists and Technologists of Indian origin (CP-STIOS) have been launched to harness the potential offered by Scientists and Technologists of Indian origin settled abroad with expertise in their respective fields to develop long-term association and contact with research groups in India. CII-DST MOU on Global Innovation Technology Alliance, Indo-German Science Research & Technology Centre, Joint R&D Centres with other countries, India’s participation in European Union (EUs) FP7 Programme are also to be supported. 13. TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT BOARD 13.1 Objectives : 13.2 The Government of India constituted Technology Development Board (TDB) in September, 1996, under the provisions of the Technology Development Board Act, 1995, with adequate fund to consolidate further Technology Development in the country by bringing together the efforts of industry and R&D institutions for achieving integrated excellence. Therefore, the main objective of the Board is development and commercialisation of indigenous technology and adaptation of imported technology for wider domestic application. For the achievement of this objective, the Board provides financial assistance in the form of equity, loan and grant out of the fund administered by the Board to companies engaged in commercialisation of indigenous technology etc. Besides, TDB also endeavors to provide a framework that would facilitate and stimulate coming together of an entrepreneur and innovator to respond to market demand. 13.3 The Committee is of the opinion that in a competitive economy assistance to technology entrepreneurship is of utmost importance. Symbiosis between research initiatives and industry participation is essential for any research to become fruitful. The Committee notes the efforts made in the area of effluent treatment, water treatment and power from municipal solid waste. 13.4 Progress made during 2006-2007 13.5 During the current financial year TDB has signed 18 agreements having project cost of Rs. 223.40 crores against which TDB’s commitment is for Rs. 69.69 crores and Rs. 70.13 crores (including the disbursement of pending commitments of previous years) have so far been disbursed. 13.6 The distinction achieved in the treatment of distillery effluent, seed support for STEP/TDB’s, Drinking water purification based on membrane filtration technology, Polyherbal patented inventions, Power from municipal solid waste, Antigens and Proteins from native source,

software medical diagnostic and Recombinant Human Platelet Derived Growth Factor deserve special mention. 13.7 Wide fluctuations were noticed in ‘Payment to Technology Development Board against cess receipts’ from Rs.33.50 crores at B.E. stage to Rs. 4.92 crores at R.E. stage in 2006-07 and has again been increased to Rs. 20.80 crores in 2007-08.The Committee has been informed that the main reasons for fluctuations noticed in ‘Payment to TDB against cess receipts’ from Rs. 33.50 crore at B.E. stage to Rs. 4.92 crore at R.E. stage in 2006-07 and hike to Rs. 20.80 crore in 2007-08 are:

i. Payments to Technology Development Board against cess receipts were reduced to Rs. 4.92 crore against the B.E. of Rs. 33.50 crore, due to the improved loan / equity / grant recoveries from the assisted companies by TDB and some amount of reserves available with TDB in the form of bank deposits.

ii. Considering the ongoing project under implementation and new projects to be undertaken in different sectors of industry, the Board approved a total budget expenditure of Rs. 185.92 crore the year 2007-08 including disbursement of Rs. 121 crore to assisted companies. Taking into account the expected recoveries from the assisted companies and the available bank balances, additional budget of Rs. 63 crore would be required from the R&D cess receipts from government during the year 2007-08 to fund the ongoing and new projects. However, an outlay of only Rs. 20.80 crore has been considered by the government based on the funds available with TDB and present requirement and future projects expected to be supported in 2007-08.

13.8 The Committee appreciates the efforts of the Board for its good financial performance. It is of the opinion that the sound financial health is of utmost importance to facilitators like the 'Technology Development Board’ so that financial assistance could be provided to novel ideas and entrepreneurs well on time. 14. Fresh allocations have been made for the following Institutes/programmes: ‘Science and Engineering Research Board’; ‘Scholarships for Science in Higher Education’; ‘Water Technology Institute’; ‘Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research’; ‘Innovation clusters’; ‘Security Technology Institute’; ‘Mega facilities for Basic Research’.The Committee has been informed that the Salient features of the above programmes and the various purposes they are likely to fulfill is as follows: 14.1 Science & Engineering Research Board (SERB) 14.2 The Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (SAC-PM) has recommended that a new and autonomous body, namely the National Science and Engineering Research Foundation (NSERF), be established to significantly enhance the level of basic research funding available to raise India’s research capabilities to internationally competitive levels. Given the stratification in terms of the strengths and capabilities of various academic and research institutions in the country, promotion of basic research in the country requires two distinctly different, though obviously interdependent measures, one to widen and strengthen the base of scientific research in the country by capacity building in schools, colleges and universities and, the other, to enable and facilitate the capable scientists in various institutions to undertake ambitious and internationally-competitive projects. In order to launch this two-pronged strategy, it has been decided that the existing SERC mechanism within DST will cover the task of spreading the R&D base in universities and colleges and the new autonomous body will focus on building excellence in research and development for gaining global competitiveness in the immediate future.

14.3 Accordingly, a proposal for new ‘Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)’ is prepared and it is presently under consideration of Committee of Secretaries. Formation of such Board is expected to strengthen DST in more than one way. DST is planning to undertake many new initiatives in fostering talent and innovations, in development of technology intelligence systems for building evidence based proactive S&T policy build up for public policy support, intensification of technology development processes, expansion of science-society programs as well as in forging international cooperation related activities. The formation of the Board is likely to open opportunities for inducting new talents and support staff. 14.4 In short, the SERB would enable competent scientists in universities and other established centres of advanced research for undertaking major and internationally competitive research projects and programmes in selected areas at the frontiers areas of scientific knowledge. 15. Scholarships for Science in Higher Education (Oversight Committee Recommendation) 15.1 The scheme targets at institution of 10,000 fellowships of Rs. 1,00,000/- per year for bright students in science streams during their B.Sc/M.Sc courses. 15.2 The scheme aims at an annual accretion of 10,000/- ‘best in class’ future researchers per year, which should enable India to become a Global player in R&D. In this way a class of best young brains of the country can be nurtured and retained for research in science streams. This would eventually enable India to embark on ambitious course of wealth creation through IPR generation. 15.3 The Committee supports the idea of widening and strengthening the base of scientific research in the country through capacity building in schools, colleges and universities. The idea of forming, 'Science and Engineering Research Board’ to fulfill the above objective can be useful and might help in plugging the gaps in the supply of quality human resource. 16. Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) 16.1 One of the most serious challenges facing the S&T systems in the country during the eleventh plan period and beyond arises from the low entry of talent into the S&T streams. Unless the supply chain of talent being attracted to science education and research is strengthened urgently, India could face a major challenge. DST needs to play a critical part, if Vision 2020 of India to emerge a major knowledge and global power were to be realized, sufficient supply of young talents need to be attracted to study and careers with science. It is required that suitable systems and mechanisms to meet the innovative infrastructural needs for applications of technology for wealth generation in the knowledge economy of 2020 be designed and implemented now. Advance actions with a foresight for building innovative knowledge infrastructure are being considered and proposed as a new programme titled “Innovation in Science and Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE)”. 16.2 INSPIRE envisages building innovative knowledge infrastructure by conversion of comparative strength of India by virtue of its demography and inherited knowledge systems into competitive advantage. The scheme, which offers science as a career option by providing necessary opportunities for youth, has the following components:

i) Science innovation scholarships for a total of one million young learners of the age group 10-17 in five years

ii) Mentorship through global icons including Nobel prize winners and Indian Science leaders through summer camps for the top 1% performers in the Class X examination every year for a period of five years

iii) Scholarships for doctoral research backed by an assured research career opportunity scheme for a total of 1000 young people leaving plus two level for a period of five years after their PhD in sciences.

17. Mega Facilities for Basic Research 17.1 The scheme aims at creation of mega science programmes and facilities in and out of the country to improve access to such state-of-the-art facilities to the Indian scientific community, especially from the academic sector.

To facilitate— • the setting up of national facilities like the India-based Neutrino Observatory,

National Heterostructure Facility, FAIR Units/Centres in universities, Indus-2 beam lines, etc.; and

• participation of Indian groups in setting up and utilizing major international basic research facilities like the International Linear Collider, Square Kilometre Array project, ITER Project; FAIR project in Germany, etc.

18. Water Technology Initiative 18.1 Salient Features: Department of Science & Technology intends to launch a major initiative on Water Technologies in the Eleventh Plan. The focus of DST’s efforts would be on developing low-cost and simple to use house-hold systems for providing safe drinking water. Research for improving existing technologies would succeed only marginally as these technologies have reached near saturation. Initiating path breaking research will lead to technologies of future as they are currently in nascent stage. Attempt would be made to overcome the risk factors by developing focused inter-disciplinary programme to create a “shelf of technological solutions” synergizing available strengths of various institutions. 18.2 Thrust Areas:

• Substantial improvements in available technologies to remove their short comings. • Initiating programmes for project management emanating from water purification

process. • Initiating application of nanotechnology, plant materials etc to make radical advances over

existing technologies. 18.3 Proposed Activities:

• Demonstration of technology at 50 different places, if successfully developed • Development of low cost domestic water purification technologies to remove contaminants

in drinking water. • Generating technological option for disposal of specific waste generated during arsenic and

fluoride removal • Demonstration and field trials of indigenous technologies for arsenic removal and

desalination. 18.4 The Committee desires that the steps taken by the Department in designing water technologies should bear fruits in the near future. Water pollution being a major problem in our country and providing safe drinking water a major challenge, the need of the hour is easy availability of low cost domestic water purification technology so as to save people from polluted water and the resultant water - borne diseases. 19. Innovation Clusters 19.1 Innovation Clusters are drivers of innovation through the adoption of technology, modern systems and practices. Firms learn to innovate using technology and adapt leading-edge management techniques in Innovation Clusters. Clusters improve the firms by increasing the

productivity of companies based on the Cluster; by stimulating existing research to become market focussed; by driving the direction and pace of innovation and by stimulating the formation of new businesses within the cluster. 19.2 There is no shortage of good ideas in India, but being able to transform them swiftly into top-quality marketable products is an equally important challenge in the business equation. The effectiveness of an innovation process depends decisively on efficient cooperation between development and production. For this reason, it is important for providers of research and development services to work in close collaboration with industry. Clusters are one such mechanism where both these communities come together. 19.3 Strategy and Goals: The Department has informed that it would continue to develop and expand its innovation activities with key private and public sector stakeholders across India . Some key objectives include: Creating a globally competitive research and technology base for cluster development at the community level, Developing trust through working together and sharing research, leading to ultimately a culture of trust and knowledge transfer beneficial to all cluster stakeholders, fostering technology leadership through cluster champions and knowledge-based strategies, Working with stakeholders to leverage funding and new investment in innovation clusters; and stimulating the emergence of new innovative firms, jobs, exports and investment growth. 19.4 Proposed Programme: The department has played an active role in shaping many Indian programmes based on researches, innovations and then commercialisation. Many of its projects and programmes provide technology advice and innovation support to SMEs. It will augment this role to respond more effectively to the growing needs and opportunities of stakeholders across India . Efforts will include working closely with Indian researchers and entrepreneurs to help develop their innovative capacity in key technology fields through jointly formulated long-term strategies to foster the growth of new and emerging innovation clusters. 19.5 The Committee believes that in the fast changing world of today where the growth of technology is exponential, both generation of innovative ideas alongwith their adaptations in the work environment and their commercial viability is essential. Helping firms adapt to new production practices is not only important for the firms to stay in business but also important to spread a culture of flexibility and learning so as to remain efficient in the long run.

The Committee in its interaction with the Department has highlighted the importance of not just attracting young people but also empowering them so as to involve them in decision making and helping them take up responsibilities so that they can become future leaders. The Committee appreciates the idea of innovation clusters to attract young minds. The Committee believes that science research being a dynamic field, young scientist should be trained to take fast decision and show functional flexibility. 20. Patent Facilitating Centre (PFC) 20.1 The Patent Facilitating Centre (PFC) has basic objectives of creating IPR awareness, facilitating filing of patents on innovative workd done by Indian Scientists, keeping watch on the development in the area of IPR and developing a culture of using patent inputs in the R&D Projects to be undertaken. 20.2 During the year 2007-08, activities like issue of IPR Bulletins, holding of patent awareness workshops, opening of new patent information centers, filing of patent applications, conducting special training programmes and updating Ekaswa database will be continued.

20.3 The Committee attaches great importance to the creation of Intellectual Property Rights and recommends the Department to take necessary steps to ensure that all novel scientific efforts should get translated into intellectual property. The Committee would like the Department to set up Technology Intelligence Cell in the Department so as to keep track of directions which contemporary science is taking, based on IPR activities. 21. Security Technology Initiative 21.1 The prime security challenges facing this country today is combating terrorism. To safeguard our national security we must continue to implement a firm strategy to diminish the capabilities of terrorists. The security, economic well being, safety of a nation depend on the strength and vitality of the nation’s science and technology (S&T) enterprise. Areas to be covered will include preventive detection and measures in order to save the public and property prior to the explosion; detection and neutralization of explosives buried several months prior to explosion; disabling suicide bombers; cryptoanalysis; wireless sensor network alongwith communication links; handling of people through knowledge and training etc. 21.2 The report on thrust areas, namely Front End Detection, Discriminative Image Processing, Instrumentation & Devices (including neutralization), Intelligence Insight (for priorities), People and Places Management will identify specific action in collaboration with technology developers & users. Subsequently, project on select development, demonstration & testing of efficacy may be undertaken on limited scale before wider adoption/replication. 21.3 The Committee appreciates the efforts of the Department in providing security technology initiative which may provide safeguard of national security. This would also help our security forces in combating terrorism. 22. After considering the Demands for Grants of the Department of Science and Technology and assessing the progress of various important programmes and projects administered by it, the Committee recommends that the budgetary allocation of Rs.1775.00 crores under Demand No.81 (Department of Science and Technology) as sought by the Department for the year 2007-08 may be approved.

Summary of Recommendations 1. The Committee desires that the Nano Mission proposal made by the department should be finalised soon. The Committee appreciates India Institute of Science Bangalore and Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati for the breakthroughs made on the respective projects assigned to them. It also desires that such success stories should encourage other institutes to follow suit.

The Committee is of the opinion that futuristic technology based on Nano Science holds an important key to future development in the world of science. In an increasingly interdependent world where the dividing line between academic research and commerce is increasingly getting blurred, futuristic projects like those based on Nano-science can not only raise our living standards but such potential areas can also create wealth for the society. The Committee welcomes the idea of separate budget allocation for Nano-mission in budget 2007-08 as it believes that such a step would help bring the focus back on Nano-research. (Para 9.4.5) 2. The Committee is of the opinion that agriculture sector continues to be the Achilles heel of our economy. With very little growth over the years, we are entering the danger zone of increased poverty levels in the rural sector. It is in this context that Science and Society Programme of the Department acquires immense importance. The idea of eleven science based organizations to nurture S & T personnel to take up challenges to work on rural problems and evolving innovative S & T based solutions can go a long way in addressing the failure of agriculture extension services which is one of the reason for slow growth of agriculture. The Committee also expresses its satisfaction on the work done by the Department in field-testing and adaptation of water filter and desires that such projects should be replicated elsewhere. (Para 10.8) 3. The Committee notes the reasons for the delay in the commencement of project and would like the Department to do its groundwork properly before demanding allocations so that the funds can be optimally utilized in future. (Para 11.4) 4. The Committee is of the opinion that in a competitive economy assistance to technology entrepreneurship is of utmost importance. Symbiosis between research initiatives and industry participation is essential for any research to become fruitful. The Committee notes the efforts made in the area of effluent treatment, water treatment and power from municipal solid waste. (Para 13.3) 5. The Committee appreciates the efforts of the Board for its good financial performance. It is of the opinion that the sound financial health is of utmost importance to facilitators like the 'Technology Development Board’ so that financial assistance could be provided to novel ideas and entrepreneurs well on time. (Para 13.8) 6. The Committee supports the idea of widening and strengthening the base of scientific research in the country through capacity building in schools, colleges and universities. The idea of forming, 'Science and Engineering Research Board’ to fulfill the above objective can be useful and might help in plugging the gaps in the supply of quality human resource. (Para 15.3) 7. The Committee desires that the steps taken by the Department in designing water technologies should bear fruits in the near future. Water pollution being a major problem in our country and providing safe drinking water a major challenge, the need of the hour is easy availability of low cost domestic water purification technology so as to save people from polluted water and the resultant water - borne diseases. (Para 18.4)

8. The Committee believes that in the fast changing world of today where the growth of technology is exponential, both generation of innovative ideas alongwith their adaptations in the work environment and their commercial viability is essential. Helping firms adapt to new production practices is not only important for the firms to stay in business but also important to spread a culture of flexibility and learning so as to remain efficient in the long run.

The Committee in its interaction with the Department has highlighted the importance of not just attracting young people but also empowering them so as to involve them in decision making and helping them take up responsibilities so that they can become future leaders. The Committee appreciates the idea of innovation clusters to attract young minds. The Committee believes that science research being a dynamic field, young scientist should be trained to take fast decision and show functional flexibility. (Para 19.5) 9. The Committee attaches great importance to the creation of Intellectual Property Rights and recommends the Department to take necessary steps to ensure that all novel scientific efforts should get translated into intellectual property. The Committee would like the Department to set up Technology Intelligence Cell in the Department so as to keep track of directions which contemporary science is taking, based on IPR activities. (Para 20.3) 10. The Committee appreciates the efforts of the Department in providing security technology initiative which may provide safeguard of national security. This would also help our security forces in combating terrorism. (Para 21.3) After considering the Demands for Grants of the Department of Science and Technology and assessing the progress of various important programmes and projects administered by it, the Committee recommends that the budgetary allocation of Rs.1775.00 crores under Demand No.81 (Department of Science and Technology) as sought by the Department for the year 2007-08 may be approved. (Para 22)

*********** MINUTES

XII TWELFTH MEETING

The Committee met at 11.00 a.m. on Tuesday, the 3rd April, 2007 in Room No. 139, First Floor, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi.

PRESENT

1. Shri P.G.Narayanan –– Chairman

RAJYA SABHA

2. Dr. Prabha Thakur 3. Shri Suryakanthbhai Acharya 4. Shri Bhagirathi Majhi 5. Shri Saman Pathak 6. Shri Jabir Husain 7. Dr. Barun Mukherjee

LOK SABHA 8. Dr. Sujan Chakraborty 9. Shri Thupstan Chhewang 10. Shri Francis Fanthome 11. Shri Babubhai K. Katara 12. Shri Brahmananda Panda 13. Smt. Neeta Pateriya 14. Shri Pratik Prakashbapu Patil 15. Shri Bachi Singh ‘Bachda’ Rawat 16. Shri K.C. Singh “Baba” 17. Smt. Jayaben B. Thakkar 18. Shri Mitrasen Yadav 19. Shri Sita Ram Yadav

SECRETARIAT

Shri R.K.Singh, Officer on Special Duty Shri Alok Chatterjee, Deputy Secretary

* * * ________________________________________________________________________*** Relates to other matters.

Representatives of the Department of Science & Technology

1. Dr. T. Ramaswami, Secretary, DST 2. Shri Sanjiv Nair, Joint Secretary (Admn.) 3. Shri K. P. Pandian, JS & FA 4. Maj. Gen. M. Gopal Rao, Surveyor General of India 5. Shri Rao V. Aiyagari, Scientist-‘G’ 6. Dr. Laxman Prasad, Scientist-‘G’ 7. Shri Anuj Sinha, Scientist-‘G’ 8. Shri Y.P. Kumar, Scientist –‘G’ 9. Dr. H. K. Mittal, Scientist-‘G’ 10. Dr. B. D. Acharya, Scientist ‘G’ 11. Dr. R. Saha, Scientist ‘G’ 12. Dr. B. Hari Gopal, Scientist ‘G’ 13. Dr. S. Chattarjee, Scientist ‘G’ 14. Shri Neeraj Sharma, Scientist ‘F’ 15. Shri M. Sridharan, Controller of Accounts 16. Dr. B.K. Shukla, Scientist ‘F’

2. * * * 3. The Committee, thereafter, adjourned at 01.30 p.m. for lunch and re-assembled at 03.00 p.m. to hear the Secretary, Department of Science & Technology.

4. The Chairman welcomed the Secretary and other officials of the Department of Science & Technology and requested the Secretary to make a brief presentation regarding the Demands for Grants (2007-08) of the Department. Thereafter, the Secretary made a visual presentation regarding the major activities formulated for the year 2007-08 and achievements of the Department during the year 2006-07. The Secretary also mentioned about the budgetary allocations under different heads as also the functioning of the Department. The Members then sought clarifications on the points that emerged out of the presentation of the Secretary. The officials then withdrew. A verbatim record of the proceedings was kept. ________________________________________________________________________*** Relates to other matters. 5. The Committee then adjourned at 05.30 p.m. to meet again at 11.00 a.m. on Wednesday, the 4th April, 2007.

XIV FOURTEENTH MEETING

The Committee met at 11.00 a.m. on Friday, the 20th April, 2007 in Room No. ‘63’, First Floor, Parliament House, New Delhi. PRESENT

1. Shri P.G. Narayanan ----- Chairman RAJYA SABHA

2. Shri Kamal Akhtar 3. Shri Jabir Husain 4. Dr. Barun Mukherjee

LOK SABHA

5. Dr. Sujan Chakraborty 6. Shri Thupstan Chhewang 7. Shri Francis Fanthome 8. Shri Brahmananda Panda 9. Shri Pratik Prakashbapu Patil 10. Shri Bachi Singh ‘Bachda’ Rawat 11. Shri Aruna Kumar Vundavalli 12. Shri Mitrasen Yadav

SECRETARIAT Shri R.K. Singh, Officer on Special Duty Shri Alok Chatterjee, Deputy Secretary Shri S. Rangarajan, Committee Officer

2. The Committee took-up for consideration its draft 170th, ***, ***, ***, ***, *** and *** Reports on the Demands for Grants (2007-2008) pertaining to the Departments of Science & Technology; ***; ***; ***; ***; *** and *** respectively. The Committee adopted all the reports with some minor changes.

3. The Committee was informed by Table Office, Lok Sabha Secretariat that discussion on the Demands for Grants pertaining to the Ministry of Science & Technology would take place at 4.00 p.m. on 26th April, 2007 in Lok Sabha. ________________________________________________________________________*** Relates to other matters. Accordingly it was requested to present the reports pertaining to the Ministry of Science& Technology, a couple of days in advance, prior to the date of discussion in Lok Sabha. Therefore, the Committee decided to present aforesaid reports to the Hon’ble Chairman, Rajya Sabha on 24th April, 2007. The Committee authorized its Chairman Shri P.G. Narayanan and two members, Shri Francis Fanthome (M.P., Lok Sabha) and Shri Thupstan Chhewang (M.P., Lok Sabha) to present the reports to the Hon’ble Chairman, Rajya Sabha on 24th April, 2007. 4. The Committee also decided to present all the seven reports (170th to 176th) on 26th April, 2007 in both the Houses of Parliament. The Committee authorized its Chairman and in his absence Dr. Barun Mukherjee to present the reports in Rajya Sabha and to lay the copies of the reports on the table of Lok Sabha by Dr. Sujan Chakraborty and in his absence by Shri Thupstan Chhewang. 5. * * * 6. The Committee then adjourned at 12.05 p.m. ________________________________________________________________________*** Relates to other matters.