The Indian Science, Technology and Engineering Facilities Map, known as I-STEM, is a web portal enabling researchers across the country to easily access resources. Developed by the Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) at the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru, this portal is funded by the Office of Principal Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office. This initiative is instrumental in bridging gaps in scientific research by providing swift access to resources.
Monitoring and Future Expansion of I-STEM
The I-STEM portal is monitored by several agencies including the Department of Science and Technology. They assess how effectively the equipment funded by them is being used. In future, the database will expand to include private laboratories and universities. This expansion could potentially benefit an array of start-ups around the country.
PM-STIAC: An Overview
Formed in August 2018, the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) advises on all matters related to science, technology, and innovation. Chaired by the Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) to the Government, K Vijay Raghavan, it consists of 21 members. This council replaced the former Scientific Advisory Committee to the PM and Cabinet.
Governing the Geographical Indication Tag
India’s Geographical Indication Registry has granted a GI Tag to Erode manjal (Turmeric) under the Spices Category. Recognising its size, quality, colour and resistance to pests, the tag has been bestowed. Erode Turmeric is a rhizome that is grown in hot moist conditions with rainfall between 600 and 800 mm annually.
Renewable Status for Large Hydro Power Projects
Under the New Hydroelectricity Policy, ‘renewable energy status’ has been granted to large hydel projects. Earlier, only smaller projects with a capacity of less than 25 MW fell under this category. The relevant table of facts is provided below before the ensuing subheading.
| Hydro Power Potential | Utilised So Far | Added in Last 10 Years | Share in Total Generation (1960s) | Share in Total Generation (2018-19) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1,45,320 MW | 45,400 MW | 10,000 MW | 50.36% | 13% |
Renewable Purchase Obligation and Rebate on Embedded Taxes
Renewable Purchase Obligation is a mandate for power purchasers to source electricity from specified ‘green’ sources or buy renewable energy certificates (RECs) from the market in lieu of that. This obligation is often shouldered by electricity distribution companies and large consumers of power. A Union Cabinet-approved scheme provides State and Central Embedded Taxes rebate for apparels and made-up exports.
Divestment of CPSEs
Recently, the Union Cabinet decided to authorize the Finance Minister-led Alternative Mechanism (AM) to decide on strategic disinvestments of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). This empowered committee is responsible for deciding various aspects of the sale, including the number of shares to be transacted, the mode of sale, pricing, selection of strategic partner/buyer and timing of the sale.