From DST to NITI Aayog: Abhay Karandikar Promises Evidence-Based Technology Policymaking
Former DST Secretary and IIT Kanpur Director expected to strengthen India’s science, technology and innovation-driven policy ecosystem
Following the assumption of office, Karandikar shared a message on LinkedIn describing the opportunity as both “exciting and deeply meaningful.”
New Delhi: Renowned scientist and academician Abhay Karandikar on Monday assumed charge as Member of NITI Aayog, bringing with him extensive expertise in science, technology, telecommunications, research ecosystems and innovation policy.
Following the assumption of office, Karandikar shared a message on LinkedIn describing the opportunity as both “exciting and deeply meaningful.”
“It is my privilege to take charge today as Member, NITI Aayog and contribute to India’s development journey through science, technology, innovation and evidence-based policymaking,” he said.
He added that he looked forward to engaging with states, institutions, industry and young innovators in advancing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”.
Before this appointment, Karandikar served as Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), where he played an important role in strengthening India’s research, innovation and emerging technology ecosystem.
Prior to joining DST in October 2023, he served as Director of Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur), where he was associated with expanding research infrastructure, startup incubation and industry-academia collaboration.
Widely recognised for his contributions to wireless communications and digital technology research, Karandikar has also been closely associated with India’s telecom innovation ecosystem, particularly in areas relating to 5G and next-generation communication technologies.
Before leading IIT Kanpur, he was a professor at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and later served as Chairman of the Telecom Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI), contributing to indigenous telecom standards and India’s participation in global technology standardisation initiatives.
Policy observers view his appointment to NITI Aayog as significant at a time when India is accelerating investments in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, deep-tech manufacturing, digital public infrastructure and research-led economic growth.
NITI Aayog, the government’s apex public policy think tank, plays a central role in shaping strategic policy direction across sectors including technology, sustainability, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture and digital governance.
Karandikar is expected to contribute significantly to policy frameworks relating to emerging technologies, scientific innovation, startup ecosystems, digital transformation and future-ready infrastructure aligned with India’s long-term development goals.
