Prime Minister Narendra Modi is preparing to ignite a new era of scientific discovery and technological advancement by launching a monumental ₹1 lakh crore fund on Monday. This significant investment aims to bolster private sector involvement in research and development as he opens the first-ever Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 in the nation’s capital.
ESTIC, envisioned as a premier annual gathering, is a flagship government initiative dedicated to the fields of science and technology.
This three-day event is expected to draw over 3,000 luminaries, including academics, researchers, industry leaders, government officials, Nobel laureates, prominent scientists, innovators, and policymakers, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on Sunday.
In a powerful move to energize India’s research and development landscape, the Prime Minister will officially introduce the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund. This fund is specifically designed to foster a robust R&D framework driven by the private sector, as detailed in the official statement.
Operating under the inspiring banner of “Imagine, Innovate, Inspire,” the conclave’s core mission is to unify India’s diverse innovation ecosystem, bringing together key stakeholders such as policymakers, scientists, industry stalwarts, educational institutions, burgeoning startups, and dedicated researchers.
Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized that ESTIC will provide an essential forum to “identify existing gaps, forge strategic partnerships, and collaboratively chart pathways that seamlessly integrate science and technology with India’s overarching developmental objectives.”
The PMO statement further outlined that the conclave’s agenda will feature insightful talks from leading scientists, dynamic panel discussions, engaging presentations, and cutting-edge technology showcases. These activities are crafted to stimulate cooperation among researchers, industries, and young innovators, thereby strengthening India’s science and technology foundation.
Discussions will delve into 11 critical thematic areas, including advanced materials and manufacturing, artificial intelligence, bio-manufacturing, the blue economy, digital communications, electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, groundbreaking agricultural technologies, energy solutions, environmental and climate challenges, health and medical technologies, quantum science and technology, and space technologies.
Concurrently, Dr. Singh also reviewed the progress of preparations for the India International Science Festival (IISF), slated to take place at Panjab University, Chandigarh, from December 6 to 9. He affirmed that IISF 2025 will serve as a vibrant celebration of India’s scientific and technological triumphs across various ministries, academia, industry, and startups, truly embodying the spirit of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).