GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
DEPARTMENT OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO 136
TO BE ANSWERED ON 16-11-2007

APPLICATION OF S & T TO IMPROVE LIVING STANDARD

136. PROF PREM KUMAR DHUMAL:

Will the Minister of SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government have set up any mechanism for the application of Science and Technology to improve the living standards of people, particularly weaker and women; and
(b) if so, the details thereof; and

ANSWER

MINISTER OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND MINISTER OF EARTH SCIENCES
(KAPIL SIBAL)

(a) & (b): Yes Sir, the societal programmes of the Government of India through Ministry of Science and Technology and Ministry of Rural Development fund science and technology based demonstration projects which aim at reaching technology to the weaker sections of the society including women. The objectives of these schemes include sponsoring time - bound projects which can demonstrate the application of science & technology in improving the living conditions of weaker sections including women by reducing their drudgery, improving health and environment and by providing opportunities for income generation, thus helping the process of economic development with equity and social justice. These projects are implemented by NGOs, educational institutions and R&D institutions with the help of motivated scientists, technologists and field level workers.