The concept of "Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life" in the Indian context is a national policy framework (concept) that uses scientific research and technological innovation as a primary tool for socio-economic development. Its foundation was laid by the Scientific Policy Resolution (SPR), which was adopted in the Indian Parliament in 1958. The SPR 1958 was created to establish a scientific temper and enterprise, recognizing that investment in science and technology was critical for achieving a welfare state and national prosperity.
The mechanism for implementing this vision involves institutions like the Department of Science and Technology (DST), established in 1971 to promote new fields of S&T, and successive national policies. The initial focus on science was broadened by the Technology Policy Statement (TPS) 1983, which emphasized technological self-reliance and the development of indigenous technologies. This was followed by the Science and Technology Policy (STP) 2003.
The policy has changed recently with the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) 2013 being replaced by the STIP 2020. The STIP 2013 introduced the element of 'innovation' and aimed to position India among the top five global scientific powers. The current STIP 2020 is the fifth national policy and is closely linked to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), focusing on economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
This framework connects to tangible developments like the advancements in space technology by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the growth of the Information Technology (IT) and software services sector, and the strength of the pharmaceutical industry, which is a global leader in generic drugs. These developments have a direct effect on everyday life, from enhancing communication through cellular networks to improving health outcomes and national security.