Union Minister of Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the historic launch of the ₹1 Lakh Crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Fund Scheme by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as a transformative milestone on India’s scientific journey. Speaking at the valedictory session of the pioneering Emerging Science, Technology & Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2025), Dr. Singh expressed pride and optimism about the conclave’s success in fostering innovation and collaboration.
ESTIC 2025: A Nexus of Innovation and Collaboration
The three-day ESTIC 2025 event, held at Bharat Mandapam, was described as a “temple of innovation” where ideas met inspiration and research aligned with national relevance. Dr. Singh emphasized that the conclave exemplified the ‘Whole-of-Government, Whole-of-Nation’ approach, synergizing 13 Ministries and various stakeholders into a coordinated drive towards scientific excellence. Highlighting participation from Nobel Laureate Sir Andre Geim and world-class researchers, Dr. Singh noted that the conclave’s 11 technical thematic sessions and start-up showcases symbolized India’s emerging role as a global innovation hub under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
RDI Scheme and ANRF: Steering Long-Term Research Growth
The ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Fund Scheme aims to fuel India’s innovation ecosystem by providing long-term financing at low or nil interest rates to private sector players, particularly in strategic and sunrise domains such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, and more. The initiative is supported by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), facilitating strong academia-industry-government collaboration for sustainable research and innovation growth.
Empowering Youth and Strengthening Ecosystem
Dr. Singh praised the spirit of young researchers and deep-tech startups showcased during ESTIC 2025, highlighting their energy and ingenuity as pillars of New India’s innovation landscape. He proposed virtual workshops to enhance research presentation skills and recommended institutionalizing structured investor-startup interactions to translate innovations into impactful ventures. The minister also lauded the contribution of Indian-origin scientists through the VAIBHAV Fellowship, emphasizing the need to further engage this global community.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in India’s Scientific Evolution
Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded that ESTIC 2025 marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s scientific and technological evolution. The insights and partnerships established are set to translate into actionable policies aligned with the national mission of Viksit Bharat 2047. Extending gratitude to ministries, research institutions, and industries, he reaffirmed India’s goal to become a global powerhouse of innovation and self-reliance, driven by collective effort and visionary leadership.
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Source: PIB
