Rajesh S Gokhale given additional charge as Secretary- Dept of Science and Technology
Dr. Rajesh S Gokhale presently Secretary- Department of Biotechnology has been given the additional charge as Secretary- Department of Science and Technology upon relinquishment of the charge of the post by Prof. Abhay Karandikar .
The position of Secretary in the Department of Science and Technology is one of the most significant administrative and policy-making roles in the Government of India’s scientific and technological framework. Functioning under the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Secretary is responsible for guiding national policies related to science, innovation, research and emerging technologies while promoting scientific advancement and technological development across the country.
The Secretary serves as the administrative head of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and plays a central role in formulating and implementing policies aimed at strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem. The officer works closely with research institutions, universities, scientific organisations, industry bodies and various ministries to promote innovation-driven growth and technological self-reliance.
One of the key responsibilities of the Secretary is to oversee national programmes related to scientific research, technology development and innovation promotion. The officer is involved in framing long-term strategies for strengthening India’s capabilities in frontier areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, clean energy, biotechnology, climate science, advanced materials and space-related technologies.
The Secretary also supervises funding and support mechanisms for scientific research institutions, startups, innovation centres and academic collaborations. The role includes promoting research and development activities through grants, national missions and public-private partnerships aimed at enhancing India’s global competitiveness in science and technology.
Another important responsibility of the Secretary is to coordinate with premier scientific institutions and autonomous bodies functioning under the Department of Science and Technology. These may include organisations involved in scientific research, technological innovation, climate studies, advanced computing and science communication. The officer ensures effective implementation of government programmes and monitors progress of key scientific initiatives at the national level.
The position also involves international cooperation in science and technology. The Secretary represents India in bilateral and multilateral scientific collaborations and works towards strengthening partnerships with global research organisations, universities and technology institutions. Such collaborations help in knowledge exchange, joint research programmes and technological advancement in critical sectors.
The Secretary plays a crucial role in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship within the scientific ecosystem by supporting technology startups, incubation centres and industry-academia partnerships. The officer also contributes towards policy initiatives aimed at encouraging scientific temper, skill development and greater participation of youth in research and innovation activities.
Administrative leadership forms another major aspect of the role. The Secretary supervises departmental administration, budget allocation, policy execution and inter-departmental coordination while ensuring transparency, efficiency and timely implementation of scientific programmes and national missions.
Given the increasing importance of science and technology in economic growth, national security and sustainable development, the role of Secretary in the Department of Science and Technology has gained immense strategic relevance. The position requires visionary leadership, deep policy understanding and the ability to align scientific advancement with national development priorities.
The Secretary in the Department of Science and Technology therefore occupies a vital position in shaping India’s scientific future and strengthening the country’s technological capabilities on the global stage. The role is regarded as one of the most prestigious assignments within the Indian Bureaucracy and scientific administration framework, contributing significantly to India’s innovation-led growth and long-term development objectives.
Indian Bureaucracy News wishes Dr. Rajesh S Gokhale the very best.