The Government is working to make the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund more responsive while maintaining strong safeguards for the protection of public money and private investment, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, said during a monthly review meeting of science ministries and departments in New Delhi.
Chairing the meeting at Aryabhatta Hall, Technology Bhawan, Dr Jitendra Singh said the RDI Fund’s conflict-of-interest framework has been designed with stringent safeguards to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability. He welcomed suggestions from stakeholders and said additional safeguards could be considered wherever necessary.
The Minister was informed that funds have already been disbursed to some selected firms, while the process for the remaining approved companies is underway and is expected to be completed shortly. He directed officials to accelerate the process without compromising due diligence and verification.
Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that timely funding is essential for firms seeking to advance research and innovation. Since half of the RDI investment is expected to come from private equity sources, he said investment committees have a shared responsibility to protect both taxpayers’ money and private capital.
Second-Level Fund Managers to Be Selected Soon
The meeting was informed that the selection of Second-Level Fund Managers (SLFMs) is progressing and is likely to be completed within about two weeks. These managers will identify deserving companies and facilitate investments under the approved RDI framework.
The Minister was also briefed on consultations held with various ministries to expand the Fund’s coverage of strategically important technology areas. An expert committee has evaluated the suggestions and recommended a broader and more flexible sectoral scope, enabling the initiative to respond to emerging technological priorities, including rapidly evolving fields such as Artificial Intelligence.
The first round of application assessment has already been completed, with positive recommendations prepared for eligible proposals. The Government expects the experience gained during the first cycle to help streamline subsequent rounds and create a smoother mechanism for private-sector participation in R&D.
Greater Collaboration Across Science Departments
The meeting reviewed efforts to improve coordination and information sharing among scientific departments and institutions. Regular interaction between departments, CSIR laboratories and other organisations is being encouraged to identify common areas of interest, strengthen collaboration and minimise duplication of efforts.
Progress under Sah-SANKALP, a resource book highlighting technologies developed through government-supported research, was also reviewed. Of the 60 technologies showcased, 56 have been deployed at the grassroots level, while 41 have achieved Technology Readiness Levels of 8 or 9. Interest has also been received from enterprises and entrepreneurs for 38 technologies, with potential technology adopters being connected with relevant CSIR laboratories.
Focus on Public Communication of Science
Dr Jitendra Singh stressed the need to make communication of scientific achievements more contemporary and accessible. Science departments have been encouraged to coordinate their communication and social-media efforts to highlight technology transfers, industry partnerships and societal applications.
A proposed digital library of science and technology success stories was also discussed. The initiative is expected to provide a common repository of validated content, including short videos of around two to three minutes showcasing technologies and achievements from laboratories and institutions.
ESTIC and SSSS Campaigns Reviewed
Preparations for the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026, scheduled for October 27–29 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, were reviewed. Three Nobel Laureates and three other international award recipients have confirmed participation. The exhibition is being expanded to around 150 stalls, featuring government departments, innovation initiatives, sponsors and deep-tech startups.
The meeting also reviewed preparations for the Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar Campaign 2026, scheduled from September 12–19 across 111 beaches. Universities, NCC, NSS, fisherfolk, voluntary organisations and private stakeholders are expected to participate.
The proposed monthly ‘Vigyan Ki Baat’ lecture series, beginning August 29, along with science competitions and quizzes in collaboration with MyGov, was also discussed.
The review highlighted the Government’s approach of combining faster RDI funding with rigorous safeguards, while strengthening private-sector participation and creating a more dynamic ecosystem for research, innovation and emerging technologies.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
