Government Launches ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Fund to Catalyse Private Innovation

India has unveiled a landmark ₹1 lakh crore RDI Fund to strengthen its innovation ecosystem and encourage private-sector driven research. Announced by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, the initiative is designed to catalyse partnerships between government, investors, and startups, ensuring India’s leadership in deep-tech and bio-driven revolutions.

The fund will provide long-term, low-interest capital to startups and private enterprises, focusing on near-market technologies and frontier sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, nuclear, and space industries. Singh emphasized that India cannot work in silos and must integrate private players into the broader economic framework, aligning with global strategies of growth.

Industry leaders have welcomed the move, noting that it will reduce taboos around private participation in sensitive sectors and accelerate India’s ambition to become a global innovation hub.

Key Highlights / Major Takeaways
Fund Size: ₹1 lakh crore dedicated to R&D and innovation.

Focus Areas: AI, biotech, clean energy, nuclear, and space.

Private Participation: Designed to integrate startups and private firms into India’s growth story.

Capital Support: Long-term, low-interest financing for deep-tech ventures.

Global Alignment: India aims to match global innovation strategies and foster competitiveness.

Sources: Daily Excelsior, Business Standard, Economic Times Telecom, PIB Press Release