PM Modi Launches ₹1 Lakh Crore R&D Fund to Boost Innovation at ESTIC 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science & Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 in New Delhi, marking a significant step towards advancing India's scientific and technological capabilities. A key highlight was the launch of the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, a substantial ₹1 lakh crore corpus. This fund is designed to stimulate private sector investment in research and development, providing capital for projects that, while potentially high-risk, hold the promise of significant, large-scale impact. The Prime Minister emphasized that this initiative aims to foster innovation by supporting ambitious ventures and unlocking new opportunities for businesses.

In addition to the fund, the Anusandhan Research Foundation was announced to bolster research and innovation ecosystems within universities, creating new pathways for academic and technological advancement. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's evolving role as a pioneer in technology-driven transformation, rather than merely a consumer, citing achievements like indigenous vaccine development and the successful launch of the GSAT-7R communication satellite. The ESTIC 2025 conclave itself brings together over 3,000 participants, including Nobel Laureates and industry leaders, to deliberate on critical thematic areas such as AI, semiconductors, quantum science, and space technologies, underscoring a strategic direction for the nation's future.

Impact: This initiative is poised to significantly boost India's innovation landscape. The RDI Fund can catalyze private investment in R&D, leading to breakthroughs in critical technology sectors. The Anusandhan Foundation will strengthen academic research, fostering a pipeline of talent and new discoveries. This could lead to economic growth, job creation, and enhanced global competitiveness for Indian industries. Companies focused on R&D and operating in emerging tech sectors may see substantial benefits. Rating: 9/10.

Difficult Terms: Conclave: A large meeting or conference. Corpus: A sum of money set aside for a specific purpose. Indigenous: Made or developed in a particular country. Pioneer: A person or entity that is among the first to explore or settle a new country or area, or to develop a new idea or method. Digital Public Infrastructure: Shared digital systems and platforms that enable access to essential services and information for citizens and businesses. Thematic Areas: Specific subjects or topics of focus within the conclave. GSAT-7R: A communication satellite developed by ISRO.