India’s Big Bet on Becoming a Technology Producer Gains Momentum
What Happened
India’s ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) programme is beginning to draw private venture capital into deeptech sectors such as AI, semiconductors, robotics, biotechnology, space and clean energy. Several VC firms are expanding their deeptech focus, hiring technical experts and evaluating more science-led startups. The government has already approved 22 projects worth ₹4,744 crore, with ₹2,192 crore coming from the RDI scheme.
Key Takeaways
The RDI programme is helping bridge the funding gap between research and commercialization, encouraging private investors to back long-gestation technology ventures. This marks an important step in India's ambition to move from being a major consumer of technology to becoming a significant creator and exporter of advanced technologies.