Dehradun, June 11 -- The Uttarakhand government has unveiled the Uttarakhand Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy-2026, aimed at transforming the state into a hub of science, technology, research and innovation while addressing local challenges through scientific solutions and promoting technology-led development. Released by the Department of Information Technology, Good Governance and Science and Technology, the policy seeks to strengthen the state's innovation ecosystem, encourage research and entrepreneurship, and integrate modern technology with traditional knowledge systems to support sustainable and inclusive development. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the policy would lay the foundation for a knowledge-driven and innovation-based economy in the state. "Uttarakhand Science, Technology and Innovation Policy-2026 is a significant document that will propel our state towards a knowledge, research and innovation-based economy. Our aim is not merely to expand science and technology but to integrate them with the lives of common people, good governance, disaster management, education, agriculture, health and employment generation," said Dhami. He said the policy would provide a common platform for youth, researchers, start-ups, scientists and grassroots innovators while promoting synergy between traditional knowledge and modern technology to accelerate the vision of a self-reliant and developed Uttarakhand. According to officials, the policy focuses on the effective use of science and technology to address local needs and challenges while promoting scientific temper, innovation and research. It also seeks to balance economic growth, social inclusion and environmental sustainability. To ensure effective implementation, the government will constitute a state-level advisory body responsible for monitoring, evaluation and policy oversight. A decentralised institutional framework will also be developed to support research and innovation activities across the state, officials said. Officials said a comprehensive collaboration mechanism will be established to strengthen coordination among stakeholders at the state, regional and national levels. A state-level coordination committee will also be formed to facilitate the establishment of Science, Technology and Innovation units in government departments, public sector undertakings, private companies and start-ups....