Essence

We work with Governments and Institutions to develop solutions using science and technology

The Center for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP) is one of India's leading think tanks, with a mission to enrich policymaking with innovative approaches using science and technology for a sustainable, secure, and inclusive society. Our current work is anchored in the grand challenges of our time, namely, Clean Energy Transition, Clean Air for All, and Sustainable and Secure Future for all. Our work focuses on ensuring that our ideas are borne out of evidence and implementable at scale. We are continuously exploring new ideas that will play a crucial role in addressing our grand challenges. We are committed to an 'Ecosystem Approach' and to achieving this through multiple partnerships across the ecosystem.

Late Dr V S Arunachalam

The interaction of technology and policy at the Carnegie Mellon University inspired me to set up such an institute in India. When I wrote the vision for CSTEP, I thought, perhaps, 20 people would join me. Now, we have over 100 people keeping the dream afloat.

- Late Dr V S Arunachalam, Founder-Chairman

Our Team

Regulatory and Financial

CSTEP is registered under Section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956 and is supported by grants from the governments, industry trusts, and domestic and international foundations. Grants and donations made to the organisation are eligible for exemptions u/s 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961. CSTEP is also registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010.


The following are the regulatory and statutory aspects pertaining to CSTEP:

  • Incorporated under section 25 of the Companies Act, 1956
  • Registration under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010
  • Registration as a Wholly Charitable Trust under section 12A(a) of the Income Tax Act, 1961
  • Approval under section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961
  • Recognition as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Ministry of Science and Technology