PM Modi Launches ₹1 Lakh Crore R&D Fund at ESTIC 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a massive ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund to boost India’s private sector-led scientific ecosystem. The announcement came during his inauguration of the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Key Takeaways
- ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme Fund launched to strengthen India’s R&D capabilities
- ESTIC 2025 brings together 3,000+ participants including Nobel laureates
- Focus on ‘ease of doing research’ with reformed financial rules
- 11 key technology areas identified for strategic development
Prime Minister’s Vision for Scientific Growth
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasized the exponential pace of scientific change and the government’s commitment to fostering innovation. “Our government has launched the Rs one lakh crore RDI Scheme Fund to pave the way for new opportunities in research and development,” he stated.
“We aim to promote innovation not only in public institutions but also in the private sector. To build a modern innovation ecosystem, we are emphasising the ‘ease of doing research.'”
The Prime Minister also acknowledged recent achievements, congratulating the Indian women’s cricket team for their historic win and ISRO for successfully launching the Indian Navy’s GSAT-7R communication satellite.
Government’s Commitment to Scientific Progress
Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s transformed global perception under PM Modi’s leadership. “For decades, our scientists lacked adequate facilities despite their immense talent. We are now on the path to becoming a Viksit Bharat,” he said.
Singh noted significant progress in startups, Gaganyaan, biotechnology, and vaccines that has positioned India as the world’s fourth-largest economy. He also observed that the startup ecosystem has expanded beyond metros, with innovative ventures emerging from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
ESTIC 2025: Platform for Innovation
The three-day conclave (November 3-5) will feature over 3,000 participants from academia, research institutions, industry, and government, along with Nobel laureates and eminent scientists.
According to the PMO statement, deliberations will focus on 11 key thematic areas:
- Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Science
- Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing
- Health and Medical Technologies
- Space Technologies and Blue Economy
- Advanced Materials and Energy Solutions
The event will feature talks by leading scientists, panel discussions, presentations, and technology showcases, providing a collaborative platform for researchers, industry, and young innovators.
Minister Singh described ESTIC 2025 as “a stage for young innovators, startups and researchers to showcase innovative solutions, find mentorship and connect with industry and stakeholders.” The forum is designed as an outcome-oriented platform that celebrates stakeholder contributions while fostering collaborations.
