PARLIAMENT QUESTION: INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM

The Ministry of Science & Technology outlines a suite of measures to bolster India’s innovation ecosystem. It cites the creation of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to drive private‑sector R&D and interdisciplinary research, and the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund to attract private investment in strategic sectors. Key programmes include NIDHI, Startup India, Atal Innovation Mission, BIRAC, TIDE, and the ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme with FIST, PURSE, SAIF and SATHI centres. The INSPIRE programme (MANAK, Scholarship, Fellowship, Faculty Fellowship) and WISE‑KIRAN aim to nurture talent and women participation. The National Quantum Mission has set up four thematic hubs, while Bio‑RIDE, CSIR‑IC, Indian Space Policy 2023 reforms and MNRE’s RE‑RTD programme further expand sectoral innovation. GERD rose from 0.66 % to 0.84 % of GDP (2019‑20 to 2023‑24), and India now hosts over 2.40 lakh DPIIT‑recognised startups, ranking 38th in the Global Innovation Index (2025).