Dr Renu Swarup takes additional charge as DST Secretary

The government has approved the assignment of the additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Science & Technology (DST) to Dr Renu Swarup, currently serving as the Secretary, Department of Biotechnology (DBT) with immediate effect and till the appointment of a regular incumbent or until further orders, whichever is earlier. She recently received an extension in her tenure as DBT Secretary for a period of six months beyond April 30, 2021; upto October 31, 2021, until further orders. She has served in the Department of Biotechnology for nearly 29 years and was holding the position of Senior Advisor/Scientist ‘H’ till she was appointed a Secretary to the Government of India on April 10, 2018. With a PhD in Genetics and Plant Breeding, Dr Renu Swarup has also been closely involved in programmes and activities related to Women and Science. She was responsible for getting implemented the DBT Scheme on Biotechnology Career Advancement for Women Scientists – Bio CARE. She was also a member of the Task Force on Women in Science constituted by the Scientific Advisory Committee to the Prime Minister.