PM Modi Launches ₹1 Lakh Cr RDI Scheme
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a landmark initiative — the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme worth ₹1 lakh crore — aimed at transforming India into a global innovation powerhouse.
The announcement came during the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
This mega initiative not only underscores India’s commitment to science and innovation but also aligns with the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision of building a self-reliant, knowledge-driven economy.
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Highlights
- ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme launched to boost Research, Development, and Innovation.
- India’s R&D spending doubles in a decade — GERD reaches ₹1.27 lakh crore.
- 25,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs to be set up nationwide.
- 10,000 new PM Research Fellowships to encourage young innovators.
- Launch event held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi during ESTIC 2025.
RDI Scheme: A ₹1 Lakh Crore Push for Innovation
The RDI Scheme is designed to strengthen India’s research ecosystem and create a strong bridge between academia, startups, and industry.
Under the scheme, the government will focus on:
- Supporting cutting-edge research in key sectors such as AI, biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced materials.
- Providing long-term, low-interest financing for high-impact R&D projects.
- Building collaborative innovation clusters that bring universities, private companies, and startups together.
The ₹1 lakh crore fund is expected to create thousands of new research opportunities, drive technology-based entrepreneurship, and accelerate patent generation in India.
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India’s Rising R&D Investments
India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) has shown impressive growth over the past decade.
According to official data, GERD doubled from ₹60,196.75 crore in 2010–11 to ₹1,27,380.96 crore in 2020–21.
- Government Sector: 64% contribution
- Private Sector: 36% contribution
This increasing investment reflects India’s growing focus on building a robust innovation economy, with greater participation from both public and private sectors.
Expansion of Innovation Ecosystem
One of the major highlights of PM Modi’s announcement is the expansion of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM).
- The number of ATLs will increase from 10,000 to 35,000, adding 25,000 new labs across schools in India.
- These labs will encourage hands-on learning, creativity, and problem-solving skills among students from a young age.
This move aims to make STEM education more accessible, particularly in rural and semi-urban schools, empowering the next generation of Indian innovators.
10,000 New PM Research Fellowships (PMRF)
In addition to the RDI Scheme, PM Modi also announced 10,000 new PM Research Fellowships to be awarded over the next five years.
These fellowships will:
- Support PhD scholars and research students working in emerging technologies.
- Encourage indigenous innovation and homegrown scientific breakthroughs.
- Strengthen India’s academic research capabilities in global fields of competition.
The PMRF initiative aligns with India’s ambition to become a hub for deep-tech research and innovation.
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What Experts Say
Science and technology experts have hailed the RDI Scheme as a game-changer for India’s innovation ecosystem.
They believe the increased funding, wider outreach, and industry collaboration will help India compete with nations like the USA, Japan, and China in high-end R&D.
Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog, noted that the initiative would “help integrate research with national priorities and unlock India’s true potential in frontier technologies.”
Conclusion
PM Modi’s ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme and the addition of 25,000 Atal Labs mark a historic step toward building a New India powered by innovation.
With a strong focus on research funding, skill development, and youth empowerment, the initiative will play a key role in shaping India’s science-driven future.
As the Prime Minister said during the launch,
“Innovation is not just for laboratories — it is for every Indian who dreams of making a difference.”
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FAQs
Q1. What is the RDI Scheme launched by PM Modi?
It’s a ₹1 lakh crore initiative to strengthen India’s research and innovation ecosystem across key sectors.
Q2. How many new Atal Tinkering Labs will be established?
25,000 new labs will be set up, expanding the total number to 35,000.
Q3. What are PM Research Fellowships?
These are government-funded scholarships for PhD and research students to support innovation and advanced research in emerging technologies.
Q4. How much has India’s R&D spending increased?
It has doubled from ₹60,196.75 crore in 2010–11 to ₹1,27,380.96 crore in 2020–21.
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