The scheme aims to strengthen India’s capabilities in strategic technologies and promote technological self-reliance, aligning with the nation’s long-term innovation and Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Funding Mechanism
- Corpus: ₹1 lakh crore / Rs. One lakh Crore
- Two-tiered funding mechanism.
- Level 1 (Custodian): Special Purpose Fund (SPF) established within the ANRF.
- Level 2 (Disbursement): Funds allocated to a variety of Second-Level Fund Managers
- Mode of Funding: Long-term concessional loans (at low or nil interest rates), Equity infusion (especially for startups), Contributions to Deep-Tech Fund of Funds (FoF)
Key Objectives
- Encourage private sector to scale up RDI in sunrise domains and sectors relevant for economic security, strategic purpose, and self-reliance
- Finance transformative projects at higher Technology Readiness Levels
- Support acquisition of critical technologies or those of high strategic importance
- Facilitate establishment of a dedicated Deep-Tech Fund of Funds
Targeted Sectors:
- Sunrise Sectors: Energy Security, Deep Technology(includes quantum computing, robotics & space), Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology & Health, Digital Economy.
- Strategic Sectors: Technologies whose indigenization is necessary for strategic reasons, economic security, or Atmanirbharta.
- Public Sector: Any other sector or technology where it is deemed necessary in public interest.
Governance and Implementation Frameworks
- Nodal Department: Department of Science and Technology (DST).
- Strategic Direction: Provided by the Governing Board of ANRF chaired by the Prime Minister.
- Approval of Scheme Guidelines: Handled by the Executive Council (EC) of ANRF
- Changes in Schemes: Managed by an Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) led by the Cabinet Secretary.
