On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam. During this significant event, he also unveiled the Rs one lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, which aims to bolster India”s scientific and technological capabilities.
While addressing attendees, PM Modi expressed pride in the recent achievements of the Indian women”s cricket team, stating, “The entire nation is proud of them for their remarkable achievement.” He also highlighted India”s latest success in space exploration, mentioning the successful launch of the Indian Navy”s GSAT-7R communication satellite by ISRO, congratulating the organization and its scientists for their dedication to this mission.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of discussing emerging innovations, stating that this conclave signifies a crucial milestone for science and technology in India. He noted, “It is a proud moment for us to have Nobel laureates among us today,” acknowledging India”s expanding global influence in innovation.
The Prime Minister detailed the government”s commitment to fostering innovation through the RDI Scheme Fund, which is intended to create new opportunities in research and development across both public and private sectors. He remarked on the government”s efforts to enhance the “ease of doing research” by reforming financial regulations and procurement policies to facilitate scientific progress.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who also spoke at the event, thanked PM Modi for his visionary leadership. He noted that ESTIC 2025 is being convened at a time when global perceptions of India have shifted positively. Singh pointed out the historical lack of adequate facilities for talented scientists in India, but under Modi”s leadership, the nation is on track to becoming a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He highlighted India”s advancements in various fields, including startups, space exploration, biotechnology, and vaccine development, which have contributed to its emergence as the world”s fourth-largest economy.
Singh further mentioned that the startup ecosystem is thriving beyond major urban centers, with innovative projects arising from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. During the event, a short film showcasing the goals of the RDI Scheme was also presented.
Earlier that day, PM Modi shared on social media that the ESTIC 2025 would gather key figures from science, education, and research, making it a platform for collaboration and innovation across India. Scheduled for November 3-5, the conclave will host over 3,000 participants, including researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister”s Office (PMO), discussions at the conclave will center around 11 thematic areas such as Advanced Materials, Artificial Intelligence, Bio-Manufacturing, the Blue Economy, and Quantum Science. The event promises to feature presentations, panel discussions, and technology showcases, aimed at strengthening India”s science and technology ecosystem.
Minister Jitendra Singh described ESTIC 2025 as an opportunity for young innovators and researchers to present their solutions, seek mentorship, and connect with industry stakeholders. The conclave is structured as an outcome-oriented forum that celebrates contributions from all participants while promoting collaborations among researchers, entrepreneurs, and funding bodies.
