Emerging Technology Intervention Model of Core Support for Inclusive Rural Growth: Social–Economic–Ecological Interface Building Through Innovative Scalable Solutions and Effective Delivery Mechanism

Present paper highlights through case studies about the field level experiences in implementing unique program of Core Support under TARA scheme of Department of Science and Technology (DST) to address the emerging challenges of inclusive growth at the grassroots level. Paper discusses about possible adaptation strategies, various factors and actors involved in effective governance and towards improved ecosystem services and rural livelihoods to reduce vulnerabilities with scalable and affordable technological interventions for rural growth. Paper also discusses and analyzes cutting-edge practices in providing affordable technology access including innovative delivery mechanism with local institutional arrangements at the grassroots level though a network of S&T-NGOs. Analysis of their work for adaptive Research and Development (R&D) on efficient use of resources and in renewable energy and environment sector evidently shows that as a process mechanism it is important to strengthen local knowledge, innovation capacity, and practices within social and ecological systems for successful adoption of innovations under rural settings. It clearly suggests that DST’s Core Support Model for S&T-NGOs evolved in India provide excellent opportunities for inclusive innovations to make a more meaningful contribution to society through technology driven developmental initiatives. Paper further suggests that policy level interventions are needed to have more such S&T-NGOs across the country with enabling environment to crate vibrant ecosystem for visible transformation in rural areas through scalable technological solutions. This needs to be promoted for technology led growth strategies based on diversification in rural economies taking into account local resources and needs. Such “System Approach” will enable to innovate and deliver need-based technological solutions to well-identified local problems/challenges through adaptive research involving community as well as S&T knowledge hubs across rural areas. Such mechanism for scaling up with more S&T-NGOs (Core Support Groups) as drivers of change at the grassroots level will facilitate in bridging projected skills gaps and ensuring inclusive growth trajectory by creating vibrant social enterprise ecosystem in the country. It will also contribute to strike a balance of rural-urban divide for improving quality of life and creating job opportunities in rural India.