Copyright thehindu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a ₹1 lakh crore fund on Monday to promote private sector-driven investments in research and development, as he inaugurates the first Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 in the capital. ESTIC has been described as a flagship government event in the field of science and technology and will be held annually. The three-day conclave will bring together more than 3,000 participants from academia, research institutions, industry, and government, along with Nobel laureates, eminent scientists, innovators, and policymakers, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a statement on Sunday. In a major boost to the country’s research and development ecosystem, the Prime Minister will launch the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, which seeks to promote a private sector-led R&D framework, the statement said. Held under the theme “Imagine, Innovate, Inspire,” the conclave aims to unite India’s innovation ecosystem, including policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, academia, startups, and researchers. Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said ESTIC would serve as a platform to “identify gaps, forge partnerships, and co-create pathways that align science and technology with India’s developmental priorities.” According to the PMO statement, the conclave will include talks by leading scientists, panel discussions, presentations, and technology showcases, fostering collaboration among researchers, industry, and young innovators to strengthen India’s science and technology ecosystem. Deliberations will focus on 11 key thematic areas, advanced materials and manufacturing, artificial intelligence, bio-manufacturing, blue economy, digital communications, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, emerging agricultural technologies, energy, environment and climate, health and medical technologies, quantum science and technology, and space technologies. Meanwhile, Dr. Singh also reviewed preparations for the India International Science Festival (IISF), to be held at Panjab University, Chandigarh, from December 6 to 9. He said IISF 2025 would celebrate India’s scientific and technological advancements across ministries, academia, industry, and startups, reflecting the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
