Relaxation of Norms for Deep-Tech Startups

The Indian government has announced a relaxation of criteria for deep-tech startups to access financial support from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR).

Key Announcements

• The three-year viability criteria has been removed, allowing startups to receive financial aid of up to Rs 1 crore under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion Program (IRDPP).
• This change is intended to accelerate and sustain the growth of deep-tech startups by providing financial aid even before they are fully established.
• Startups must still adhere to evaluation standards related to technological maturity.

Implications and Expectations

• The policy shift is expected to provide early momentum to promising projects and innovators.
• The government's overarching Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) fund is generating significant interest, supporting startups with certain technological maturity levels.
• For early-stage innovators, multiple schemes are available across departments like DST, CSIR, and Technology Development Board (TDB).