Outlook Business Desk
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, marking a major step towards boosting India’s innovation and research ecosystem.
Addressing the gathering at around 9:30 am on Monday, Prime Minister Modi said ESTIC 2025 will unite leaders from science, education, and research to drive India’s innovation growth.
The three-day conclave from November 3 to 5 will host over 3,000 participants, including Nobel laureates, scientists, policymakers, and innovators, to discuss breakthroughs in emerging scientific fields.
PM Modi launched the ₹1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund to strengthen India’s research and development ecosystem and encourage private sector participation
The RDI Scheme aims to promote a private sector-driven R&D ecosystem through low or zero-interest loans, equity investments, and deep-tech funding, fostering long-term technological advancement.
The scheme has a ₹1 lakh crore outlay over six years, with ₹20,000 crore set aside for FY 2025–26, according to a Ministry of Science and Technology statement dated July 31, 2025. It will offer low or zero-interest loans, equity investments, and Deep-Tech Fund contributions, but no grants or short-term loans.
ESTIC 2025 discussions span 11 themes including Artificial Intelligence, Energy, Quantum Technology, Space Science, Semiconductor Manufacturing, Blue Economy, and Advanced Materials, defining India’s research priorities for the decade.
The conclave features scientific talks, panel discussions, and technology showcases, creating a national platform for collaboration between researchers, industry, and young innovators to strengthen India’s R&D base.