India Unveils Ambitious Rs 1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme to Boost Scientific Research

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated a groundbreaking Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) scheme to propel India to the forefront of cutting-edge science and technology, emphasizing the need for global collaboration in tackling humanity's most pressing challenges through innovation. The scheme was unveiled at the 22nd Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC), a landmark event that brought together over 3,000 experts from academia, industry, government, and research institutions. Modi highlighted the country's recent achievements, including the successful launch of its heaviest communication satellite and the historic victory of the Indian women's cricket team at the ICC Women's World Cup 2025. Key initiatives, such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, Skill India Mission, and National Career Service platform, were also spotlighted, with Modi emphasizing the government's support for high-risk, high-impact projects and the increasing participation of women in STEM fields.

Key Takeaways:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) scheme to boost India's scientific research and development.
  • The scheme aims to capitalize on the private sector's potential in driving innovation and research, while also highlighting the government's initiatives, such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation and Skill India Mission.
  • Modi emphasized the importance of ethical and inclusive innovation, detailing the India AI Mission, which involves an investment of over Rs 10,000 crore to develop a human-centric governance framework for artificial intelligence.
  • The Prime Minister praised India's recent milestones, including the successful launch of its heaviest communication satellite and the historic victory of the Indian women's cricket team at the ICC Women's World Cup 2025.
  • Anusandhan National Research Foundation was established to support innovative research

Statistics:

  • Rs 1 lakh crore: The total funds allocated for the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) scheme
  • Over 3,000: The number of participants from academia, industry, government, and research institutions attending the ESTIC conclave
  • Over 5,000: The number of annual patent filings by women in India today, a significant surge from fewer than 100 a decade ago
  • Rs 10,000 crore: The investment for the India AI Mission, which aims to develop a human-centric governance framework for artificial intelligence

Sources:

  • United News of India
  • HT Digital Content Services