New Delhi, May 26: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh held a comprehensive meeting with West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari in Kolkata. The meeting concluded with the decision to implement all major central schemes related to science, research, innovation, and startups in West Bengal with immediate effect.
Two significant regional decisions were also made during the meeting. A special study on arsenic toxicity will be initiated in the affected districts of West Bengal through CSIR institutions. Additionally, collaborative clinical and drug trial-related research on cancer and antimicrobial treatments will begin, involving major scientific institutions, government medical colleges, cancer hospitals, and networks associated with AIIMS.
Dr. Singh emphasized that West Bengal boasts a robust scientific and academic ecosystem. Institutions under the Ministry of Science and Technology are already operational throughout the state, contributing to advanced research fields.
He noted the immense potential for innovation-based collaboration in the state, encompassing scientific research, clinical trials, and networks of research institutions, medical colleges, and healthcare services.
A focal point of the discussions was the implementation of student-centric and women-centric initiatives by the Department of Science and Technology in West Bengal’s schools and colleges.
It was decided to expand and coordinate the implementation of programs like INSPIRE, Science JYOTI, and KIRAN to strengthen scientific thinking, innovation, and participation of students and women in the fields of science and technology.
Dr. Singh stated that a new model for science-based regional development in Eastern India could emerge from the synergy of scientific institutions, the education sector, healthcare infrastructure, and the innovation ecosystem.
Furthermore, it was decided to convene an initial coordination meeting within the next few days. This meeting will involve senior officials from the state’s Department of Science and Technology and central scientific ministries and departments to prepare an implementation roadmap.
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