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What happened
On November 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 in New Delhi, where he announced a significant ₹1 lakh crore fund to promote private sector-driven research and development. This flagship event, set to occur annually, aims to unite over 3,000 participants from academia, industry, and government, including Nobel laureates and leading scientists. The conclave, themed 'Imagine, Innovate, Inspire,' will facilitate discussions on 11 key thematic areas, including artificial intelligence, health technologies, and climate change. The initiative is designed to strengthen India's R&D ecosystem by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including startups and researchers. Additionally, preparations for the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025 were reviewed, emphasizing India's commitment to scientific advancement.
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Key insights
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Significant R&D Investment
The ₹1 lakh crore fund aims to enhance private sector involvement in research.
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Annual Innovation Conclave
ESTIC will serve as a recurring platform for collaboration in science and technology.
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Focus on Key Themes
Discussions will cover critical areas like AI, health, and climate technologies.
Takeaways
The launch of the ₹1 lakh crore fund at ESTIC 2025 marks a pivotal step in enhancing India's research and development landscape, fostering innovation and collaboration across sectors.