NITI Aayog launched the India Science and Technology (S&T) Scoreboard in New Delhi on 3 November 2026. Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri launched the interactive platform, which brings together information on research and innovation across all 36 Indian states and Union Territories.
Scoreboard’s coverage and purpose
The platform combines data on higher education institutions, research and development institutions, deep-tech startups, incubators, research publications and patents. It includes indicators of research quality, impact, collaboration and open access across academia, government research and development laboratories and industry. NITI Aayog said the Scoreboard would help states assess capabilities, identify gaps and develop policies and programmes, while encouraging cooperation and competition in science and technology. It is intended to support evidence-based policymaking and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. NITI Aayog Member Abhay Karandikar and Chief Executive Officer Anurag Jain attended the launch.
Initial state-level data
For 2024–25, Tamil Nadu ranked first in research publications, with 44,611, and patent applications, with 16,048. Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra followed in publications, while Maharashtra and Karnataka ranked next in patent applications.
Important Facts for Exams
- NITI Aayog’s legal status: NITI Aayog is an executive body established by Union Cabinet resolution in 2015, not a constitutional or statutory body; it replaced the Planning Commission.
- ANRF’s statutory role: The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act, 2023 established a statutory foundation to set strategic direction for research and innovation and promote India’s research culture.
- Patent opposition procedure: India’s Patents Act, 1970 permits both pre-grant and post-grant opposition, allowing challenges before a patent is granted and after it has been granted.
- National R&D statistics: The Department of Science and Technology’s National Science and Technology Management Information System compiles national data on research and development expenditure and personnel through surveys.
