New Delhi, August 8, 2025|SKY LINK TIMES
In a transformative step for India’s science and technology ecosystem, the Union Cabinet has approved a new RDI scheme with an outlay of ₹1 lakh crore spread over six years. This landmark initiative, announced on July 1, 2025, aims to bolster strategic and deep-tech sectors like quantum computing, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, digital economy, and energy security.
The scheme is designed to fund R&D projects with transformative potential starting from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 onwards and offers long-term loans at no/low interest, equity support, and contributions to Deep-Tech Funds. Notably, it does not offer short-term loans or grants.
While early-stage R&D is supported by schemes like the ANRF, NIDHI, and MeitY’s TIDE, the RDI scheme fills the crucial funding gap between prototype development and commercialisation, especially in high-risk deep tech domains.
The scheme also promotes inclusive innovation. Special efforts such as the PAIR Program, Inclusivity Research Grant (IRG), EMEQ, and PURSE are designed to ensure regional balance and participation from underrepresented institutions, SC/ST researchers, and women scientists through mentorship and relaxed eligibility criteria.
According to Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, the scheme is part of India’s broader commitment to becoming a global leader in strategic technology development, with strong emphasis on equity, empowerment, and excellence.
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