India’s transformation from a technology user to a technology leader took the spotlight at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the nation is now shaping global innovation rather than following it.

PM Modi credited India’s strong digital infrastructure, indigenous research, and innovation-driven policies for this progress. He pointed to achievements such as the world’s fastest vaccine development and the largest COVID-19 vaccination drive. These were made possible by a robust digital public infrastructure.

He noted that India’s R&D expenditure has doubled over the past decade. Patent registrations have surged 17-fold. The country has become the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. Over 6,000 deeptech start-ups are already advancing work in clean energy, semiconductors, and advanced materials.

Emphasising the need for global collaboration, Modi said ESTIC 2025 was designed to bring together experts and Nobel Laureates. Their goal is to drive innovation in the 21st century. He also lauded Indian scientists for the successful launch of GSAT-7R, India’s heaviest communication satellite developed for the Navy.

A key highlight of his address was the Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme. It is aimed at bridging funding gaps in private-sector R&D. Managed through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the scheme will support sunrise sectors like AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and clean energy. This support will be provided through long-term, low or zero-interest loans.

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