The Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 3 November 2025 during ESTIC 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, is a ₹1 lakh crore initiative (2025–2031) to promote private sector-led R&D and deep-tech innovation in India. Implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the strategic direction of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the scheme aims to make India a global innovation hub.
Its objectives include fostering technological self-reliance, encouraging industry participation, and supporting strategic sectors such as AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, energy security, climate action, and the digital economy.
Key features include flexible financing options (low-interest loans, equity funding, and a Deep-Tech Fund of Funds), simplified funding access, and enhanced industry-academia collaboration. The scheme is expected to boost India’s global competitiveness, strengthen the innovation ecosystem, create high-tech jobs, and generate intellectual property assets.
