Lucknow | 2, July 2025 : The Union Cabinet has approved the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme with a massive ₹1 lakh crore commitment. This scheme aims to accelerate private sector research and innovation in strategic and sunrise sectors.
What is the RDI Scheme?
Long-Term, Low-Cost Financing
The RDI Scheme will provide long-term, low-cost financing to private enterprises, startups and industries working on emerging technologies.
Deep-Tech Fund of Funds
The scheme includes a Deep-Tech Fund of Funds to support deep-tech ventures.
How Will It Work?
Two-Tier Structure
- Special Purpose Fund (SPF): Managed by ANRF.
- Second-level fund managers: AIFs, DFIs, NBFCs distribute funds.
Role of ANRF
ANRF will steer, monitor and guide implementation.
Why is it Needed?
India’s R&D Gap
Private sector R&D is just 36% of total spending vs. 70%+ in developed countries.
The “Valley of Death”
Many projects stall between prototype and market; this scheme aims to bridge that gap.
Sectors in Focus
Strategic and Sunrise Sectors
- Clean Energy
- Semiconductors & Electronics
- AI & Quantum Tech
- Biotech & Life Sciences
- Space Tech & Defence
- Climate & Agri-tech
Governance & Oversight
Who Will Manage?
- ANRF Governing Board chaired by the PM.
- Executive Council steers guidelines.
- EGoS monitors performance.
- Department of Science & Technology as nodal agency.
Filling the Funding Gap
Solving the Funding Shortfall
The scheme provides patient capital for high-risk, high-reward tech projects.
Industry Response
What Experts Say
Industry leaders hail it as a “game-changer” aligned with Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Viksit Bharat 2047.
India’s Innovation Future
The ₹1 lakh crore RDI Scheme will make India a global leader in cutting-edge technology, bridging gaps and strengthening competitiveness for decades to come.
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