PSCST marks 43 years; focus on innovation-led growth in Punjab

Chandigarh, July 21: The Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST) on Tuesday celebrated its 43rd  Foundation Day with an emphasis on strengthening the state’s research and innovation ecosystem.

Addressing the gathering, Kamal Kishore Yadav, IAS, Secretary, Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Punjab, said the state government was committed to nurturing a robust research and innovation ecosystem. He stressed the need to develop the ‘Knowledge City’ initiative and enhance collaboration among government, academic institutions, research organisations, industry and startups to drive innovation-led growth.

Dr Shailender Kaur, IFS, Special Secretary, DSTE, appreciated PSCST’s contribution over the past 43 years, highlighting the partnerships forged with multiple stakeholders. Executive Director Pritpal Singh, in his address, said the Council was extending scientific and technical support to over 8,000 industrial units in the areas of clean technologies and energy efficiency. He also informed about the proposed Centre for Research, Innovation, Policy and Technology Advancement aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and technology commercialisation in the state.

Prof Rajeev Ahuja, Director, IIT Ropar, underlined the importance of nurturing young talent, promoting a startup culture and strengthening industry-academia linkages. Prof Ashwani Pareek, Executive Director, National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute (NABI), emphasised the role of science-led innovation and collaborative research in ensuring nutritional security.

Joint Director Dr Dapinder Bakshi acknowledged the contributions of partner institutions and the broader innovation ecosystem.

On the occasion, Dr Lajya Devi Goyal (AIIMS Bathinda), Ms Nitika Khurana (Chandigarh Angels Network), Mr Jyoti Saroop (Unati Cooperative, Talwara), Prof Manu Sharma (Panjab University) and Dr Vipasha (SHE startup) were honoured for their contributions in the fields of science, technology and innovation. A souvenir on PSCST’s journey and the TISC Bulletin on Intellectual Property Rights were also released.