The Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 commenced on November 3 in New Delhi, marking a significant advancement in India”s research and development landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the event and introduced the Rs 1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund aimed at fostering private sector-led innovation across the nation.
The RDI Scheme Fund, with a total budget of Rs 1 lakh crore over six years, allocates Rs 20,000 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26, sourced from the Consolidated Fund of India. The initiative provides long-term low or zero-interest loans, equity investments, and contributions to the Deep-Tech Fund of Funds, although it does not include grants or short-term loans.
Running until November 5, ESTIC 2025 attracts over 3,000 participants, including scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and Nobel Laureates. The conclave addresses eleven key thematic areas, including Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, Artificial Intelligence, Bio-Manufacturing, and Quantum Science and Technology, among others.
This three-day gathering features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technology showcases, offering a platform for collaboration among researchers, industry stakeholders, and emerging innovators to bolster India”s science and technology framework. In his address, Union Minister Jitendra Singh remarked on the global respect India is garnering, stating that historians would reflect on the nation”s journey post-independence and recognize the potential that has finally been unleashed.
Singh noted, “Our scientists and researchers possessed talent and capability, and the will to work hard. They had dreams in their eyes and aspirations in their hearts, but perhaps lacked resources and a capable ecosystem.” He emphasized the importance of this initiative in realizing the long-held aspirations of India”s scientific community.
