Indian Science Congress to be Replaced by the ESTIC

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Indian Science Congress (ISC)

  • Established: 1914, premier science forum in India.
  • Achievements:
    • Built national scientific community (pre- & post-independence).
    • Hosted Nobel laureates, global scientists.
    • Influenced national science policies.
    • Popularised science via exhibitions & lectures.
  • Issues:
    • Decline in academic quality, unscientific claims.
    • Reduced policy/science relevance.
    • Institutional conflict (DST vs ISCA) → funding cuts.
    • Pandemic disruptions → only 2023 edition held.

Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC)

  • Launch: 1st edition – Nov 3–4, 2025, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • Organiser: Department of Science & Technology (DST) + all science-related ministries.
  • Key Features:
    • 11 technical sessions (space, biotech, deep-tech, renewable energy).
    • Innovation showcase with 75 startup stalls.
    • Global experts: Andre Geim, Jean-Yves Le Gall, Masaru Tomita.
    • Strong government role; PM to inaugurate.
  • Objectives:
    • Showcase frontier research & tech breakthroughs.
    • Align innovation with Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
    • Provide global-level scientific & innovation platform (distinct from IISF).

Significance of Transition (ISC → ESTIC)

  • Policy Modernisation: From general science gathering → focused innovation conclave.
  • Innovation Focus: Applied research + startups at the core.
  • Global Leadership: Positioning India in international S&T networks.
  • Institutional Clarity: Direct DST control, no ISCA conflict.
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