The Office of Principal Scientific Adviser’s I-STEM (Indian Science, Technology, and Engineering facilities Map) program unveiled V-LABS (Vertically Aggregating Labs) on Thursday in an attempt to transform research and development in India.
Through an online portal, the V-LABS platform links researchers, startups, and companies with a large network of labs and equipment across several sectors, offering free data.
The effort seeks to avoid duplication of limited resources in research institutions and save capital expenditure on sophisticated equipment.
By carefully selecting and incorporating data about scientific and engineering equipment into the I-STEM portal, it also signifies a paradigm shift in the distribution of scientific resources.
By the end of 2024, I-STEM hopes to link one million modern researchers with a network of ten thousand state-of-the-art labs throughout India.
Dr. Harilal Bhaskar, Chief Operating Officer and National Coordinator, I-STEM, stated, “V-LABS ensures that our stakeholders can efficiently find and utilise the equipment or lab they need for research, prototype development, product development, testing, and certification through meticulous curation and integration of data into the I-STEM portal.”
“This initiative fosters a collaborative and resource-efficient research environment by optimizing resource utilisation and cutting costs,” Bhaskar continued.
It was pointed out to him that ‘V-LABS’ guarantees effective use of resources, encouraging a cooperative and economical research atmosphere.
By guaranteeing fair allocation and effective utilization of scientific resources, the program seeks to enhance the country’s research ecosystem.
Improved access to scientific equipment, notable cost savings, resource optimization, and insights derived from data are among the main results.
A significant step toward I-STEM’s goal of promoting innovation and scientific excellence throughout India is the V-LABS initiative.
It seeks to empower the upcoming generation of scientists and engineers by democratizing science education and research and bridging the knowledge gap between theory and practice.
