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Science & TechnologySource: Press Information Bureau

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addresses the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2025

Wednesday, 5 November 2025
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Key Points

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2025, unveiling the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme with a fund of ₹1 lakh crore. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it aligns with GS Paper 3, focusing on Science and Technology. Last Updated: 2025-11-05

Key Facts About the RDI Scheme

  • RDI Scheme: Initiative by the Department of Science & Technology with a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore.
  • Objectives: Long-term financing for R&D and innovation.
  • Key Goals: Support strategic industries and transformative projects.
  • Governance: Chaired by the Prime Minister through ANRF.
  • Funding Model: Two-tier model with concessional loans and equity support.
  • ESTIC 2025: India's premier STI platform for collaboration.
  • Vision: Establish India as a global scientific leader.
  • Thematic Areas: AI, Bio-Manufacturing, Energy, Health Technologies, etc.

India's Scientific and Technological Advancements

The RDI Scheme is a significant step towards enhancing India's position in the global scientific community. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the initiative supports India's strategic goals of becoming a leader in technology and innovation. The scheme's focus on AI, Bio-Manufacturing, and Health Technologies aligns with India's ambition to improve its global rankings in scientific research and technological advancements.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

  • Atal Innovation Mission: Encourages innovation and entrepreneurship across India.
  • Make in India: Aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub.
  • Digital India: Promotes digital infrastructure and services.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
  • Prelims Angle: Questions on the RDI Scheme's objectives, corpus amount, and thematic areas.
  • Mains Angle: Essays on India's innovation ecosystem and the role of government in fostering R&D.
  • Essay Paper: Topics on technological advancements and their impact on society.

FAQ Section

  • What is the RDI Scheme? The Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme is an initiative by the Department of Science & Technology with a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore to support R&D and innovation in strategic industries.
  • Why is the RDI Scheme important? It aims to boost private sector involvement in research, innovation, and technology commercialization, establishing India as a global scientific leader.
  • What are the key features of the RDI Scheme? The scheme includes a two-tier funding model with concessional loans and equity support, focusing on AI, Bio-Manufacturing, Energy, and Health Technologies.

Detailed Coverage

  • RDI Scheme: Initiative by the Department of Science & Technology with a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore.
  • Objectives: Long-term financing for R&D and innovation.
  • Key Goals: Support strategic industries and transformative projects.
  • Governance: Chaired by the Prime Minister through ANRF.
  • Funding Model: Two-tier model with concessional loans and equity support.
  • ESTIC 2025: India's premier STI platform for collaboration.
  • Vision: Establish India as a global scientific leader.
  • Thematic Areas: AI, Bio-Manufacturing, Energy, Health Technologies, etc.
  • Prime Minister's Address: Emphasis on global collaboration and India's achievements.
  • Background: Launch of RDI Scheme to enhance private sector R&D role.
  • Participation: Over 3,000 stakeholders from various sectors.
  • Focus: Funding innovative ideas from scientific communities.
  • News Highlight: Inauguration of ESTIC 2025 and RDI Scheme.
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Practice Questions

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Considering the objectives of the RDI Scheme, which of the following scenarios best illustrates how the scheme could potentially transform the landscape of private sector investment in research and development in India?