Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme Launched with ₹1 Lakh Crore Outlay – Key Details for UPSC
The Government has launched the Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme with a ₹1 lakh crore six‑year outlay to fund deep‑tech projects at TRL 4+ through Second‑Level Fund Managers like TDB and BIRAC. By providing low‑cost, long‑term financing, the scheme aims to bridge the R&D financing gap and boost indigenous technology development across strategic sectors, a key focus for UPSC GS‑III.
Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) Scheme – Overview The Ministry of Science & Technology has introduced the RDI Scheme with a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over six years . Its aim is to strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem by bridging the financing gap for deep‑tech and research‑driven projects. Key Developments Financial assistance of ₹1,000 crore each has been sanctioned to the TDB and the BIRAC , totalling ₹2,000 crore . During March 2026, ₹500 crore was disbursed to TDB. TDB has approved 22 projects worth ₹4,744 crore , with RDI Fund support of ₹2,192 crore . BIRAC has shortlisted 8 projects amounting to ₹390.35 crore for RDI support. Proposals from AIFs and other FROs are under review. Important Facts The scheme operates through a Special Purpose Fund housed in the ANRF . The SPF holds the corpus and channels money to SLFMs in a two‑tier structure. Priority sectors include energy security, energy transition, climate action, quantum computing, robotics, space, artificial intelligence (AI) for agriculture, health and education, biotechnology, biomanufacturing, synthetic biology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and
Quick Reference
Key Insight
RDI Scheme rolls out ₹1 lakh crore to fund deep‑tech and boost self‑reliance.
Key Facts
- Total outlay: ₹1 lakh crore over six years (2026‑2032).
- ₹1,000 crore each allocated to Technology Development Board (TDB) and BIRAC, totalling ₹2,000 crore.
- In March 2026, ₹500 crore was released to TDB.
- TDB approved 22 projects worth ₹4,744 crore; RDI fund support ₹2,192 crore.
- BIRAC shortlisted 8 projects for RDI support worth ₹390.35 crore.
- Scheme funds flow through a Special Purpose Fund (SPF) in the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to Second‑Level Fund Managers (SLFMs) like TDB, BIRAC, AIFs and FROs.
- Eligibility starts at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 – prototype stage or higher.
Background
India needs long‑term, low‑cost financing for research‑driven technologies that private investors shy away from. The RDI Scheme links public money with private capital, targeting sectors such as energy, AI, quantum computing and biotechnology, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and climate‑action goals.
UPSC Syllabus
- Essay — Science, Technology and Society
- GS3 — IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and IPR
- GS2 — Issues relating to Health, Education, Human Resources
- Essay — Economy, Development and Inequality
- Prelims_GS — Science and Technology Applications
- GS3 — Developments in science and technology and their applications
- Prelims_GS — Constitution and Political System
- Essay — Education, Knowledge and Culture
- GS2 — Functions and responsibilities of Union and States
- Essay — Youth, Health and Welfare
Mains Angle
Discuss how the RDI Scheme exemplifies the government's strategy to mobilise private capital for strategic R&D and its impact on India’s innovation ecosystem. (GS‑III, Economy & Technology)