I-STEM Portal - Indian Science, Technology and Engineering Facilities Map

An Introduction to the I-STEM Portal

The I-STEM Web Portal, a multi-dimensional platform, was unveiled by the Prime Minister in January 2020 at the 107 ^th Indian Science Congress held in Bengaluru.

• I-STEM is an acronym for Indian Science, Technology and Engineering Facilities Map .
• The national I-STEM initiative is supported and financed by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA) to the Government of India.
• The Nanoscience Centre of the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru is responsible for the development and management of the I-STEM portal.

The Purpose behind the Launch of the I-STEM Portal

• The portal was initiated to create a link between researchers and resources.
• It achieves this by creating a database of Research and Development resources available in various institutions across India.
• The portal enables researchers from different colleges and institutions to have simplified access to research facilities and equipment across the country.
• I-STEM signifies a progressive approach towards R&D and innovation in India.

How to Access the I-STEM Portal?

• Currently, the I-STEM portal hosts a directory of approximately 20,000 pieces of equipment from more than 850 institutions nationwide.
• The portal enables researchers to find the specific facility they require for their R&D work in India, closest to their location.
• The resources can be utilized by the researchers through an online reservation system, designed in consultation with the host institution, and paid for through a secure payment gateway.
• The portal also features a discussion forum akin to Quora, where general topics can be discussed.
• The portal provides for consultations with a panel of experts.
• The I-STEM Mitra feature provides automatic responses to general queries on the portal.

Image source: https://www.istem.gov.in/

The Advantages of the I-STEM Portal

Recognized as one of the transformative ideas by the government of India, the I-STEM Portal offers numerous benefits.

• The portal strengthens the R&D ecosystem in the country by connecting researchers with resources. This is designed to empower researchers and innovators throughout the country.
• It allows researchers to optimize the use of facilities and equipment that have been procured using public funds.
• The sharing of equipment can significantly reduce the cost of research and development in India.
• Better utilization of resources is made possible through the portal.
• It aids academic researchers by eliminating the time-consuming process of locating and/or procuring necessary equipment for research.
• By making the outcomes of funded projects available in the public domain, it prevents duplication of research efforts.