PM Launches ₹1 Lakh Cr R&D Scheme, 10,000 Fellowships

• PM Modi launches Anusandhan National Research Foundation to boost university innovation.
• Announces ₹1 lakh crore R&D scheme and 10,000 new fellowships.
• India to set up 25,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs nationwide.

While addressing the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025, PM Modi announced the formation of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation to enhance research and innovation in Indian universities.

The 21st century represents a time of remarkable change. In this context, India is progressing in numerous areas linked to new science, technology, and innovation, continually prioritizing these elements, stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025.

He emphasizes that the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship has been very successful for young researchers. Modi revealed that in the upcoming five years, 10,000 fellowships will be granted to enhance R&D in the nation.

PM Modi announced that the Anusandhan National Research Foundation has been created to enhance research and innovation in Indian universities. The Prime Minister declared the initiation of the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme, with a budget of ₹1 lakh crore.

“When science is scaled, innovation becomes inclusive, and technology drives transformation, it lays the foundation for major achievements”, remarked Prime Minister.

In patent filing, he noted that ten years ago, women in India submitted fewer than 100 patents each year, while now the figure exceeds 5,000 annually. He also emphasized that women currently make up approximately 43 percent of enrollments in STEM education in India.

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PM stated that almost 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been set up nationwide, engaging over one crore children in experiments filled with curiosity and creativity. He declared that, inspired by the achievements of these labs, 25,000 additional Atal Tinkering Labs will be established.

The Prime Minister also emphasized that numerous new universities have been created in recent years, comprising seven new IITs and sixteen IIITs. He mentioned that with the new education policy, it has been guaranteed that students can now study STEM disciplines such as science and engineering in their native languages.