India to Convene Consultation on Developing Framework for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility in STEMM
New Delhi (January 8, 2025) - The Office of Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India (GOI) convened an expert consultation today to discuss the conceptualisation of a framework on 'Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility' (DEIA) in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) fields.
The meeting, chaired by Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe, aimed to develop a draft Self-Assessment and Reporting Framework (SARF) on DEIA in STEMM. The lack of disaggregated data based on comprehensive DEIA indicators has been identified as a key barrier to evidence-driven policymaking, particularly in STEMM fields.
The consultation was attended by experts from academia, think tanks, civil society, industry, and government, with the goal of conceptualising a framework that assesses and collates existing efforts and the current state of play in Indian STEMM-related organisations. The draft DEIA-SARF is built around five overarching parameters and aims to promote holistic development, especially in STEMM fields.
Dr. Maini highlighted India's demographic dividend and diversity as key drivers of socio-economic progress, citing national initiatives such as the National Education Policy and Anusandhan National Research Foundation that integrate DEIA principles. However, she emphasized the need for a comprehensive and systematic approach to DEIA in STEMM.
The experts underscored the importance of nuanced disaggregation of indicators within the framework to capture the multifaceted dimensions of DEIA. They also highlighted the critical interplay between technology and DEIA, noting how digital spaces and technologies can create new forms of challenges to inclusion and access.
Following the consultation, the DEIA-SARF will be revised and presented to decision-makers for further uptake, including a potential pilot with select institutions. A capacity-building module on the framework is also being developed in partnership with the Capacity Building Commission.
The government's commitment to DEIA-oriented initiatives aims to amplify awareness and drive collective progress towards DEIA goals in the country. The consultation marks an important step forward in shaping evidence-based policymaking in STEMM fields, where diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are increasingly acknowledged as crucial for driving innovation and socio-economic growth.
- Report by MJPS/ST