• Monday, 10 November 2025

DBT Star College Scheme

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The DBT Star College Scheme, also known as the Star College Programme, is a Department of Biotechnology (DBT) initiative launched in 2008 to strengthen undergraduate science education in India. It provides financial and academic support to selected colleges to improve their infrastructure, faculty, and curriculum, fostering hands-on experimental work, critical thinking, and student interest in pursuing higher science education. The scheme aims to establish at least one Star College in every district and has supported over 300 colleges, leading to a decrease in dropout rates in science subjects.  

Key Objectives: 
 
  • Strengthen Infrastructure: 
    Enhance physical infrastructure, including laboratories, teaching aids, and libraries.
  • Improve Teaching & Training: 
    Provide specialized access to advanced equipment and consumables for practical training.
  • Enhance Student Exposure: 
    Increase "hands-on" experimental work, promote student projects, and encourage participation in research.
  • Faculty Development: 
    Facilitate Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) and training for laboratory staff.
  • Promote Networking: 
    Facilitate networking with neighboring institutes and other colleges to foster learning.
How it Works:
  • Identification of Colleges: 
    DBT identifies colleges with the potential for excellence to receive support. 
     
  • Financial and Academic Support: 
    Colleges are provided with financial grants to upgrade infrastructure, procure equipment, and fund consumables. 
     
  • Mentoring and Guidance: 
    Colleges benefit from guidance from an Advisory Committee and mentorship programs. 
     
  • Curriculum and Project-Based Learning: 
    The scheme encourages the introduction of new practicals, student projects, and faculty improvement programs to invigorate science education. 
Expected Outcomes: 
 
  • Increased student engagement and interest in science.
  • Improved critical thinking and experimental skills among students.
  • A reduction in dropout rates in science subjects.
  • A stronger foundation for students to pursue higher education in science.

Advisory Committee

Department under Scheme

  1. Chemistry
  2. Physics
  3. Botany & Microbiology
  4. Zoology

Activities

Annual Reports