On May 5, 2025, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, chaired a high-level review of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in New Delhi, outlining bold strategies to drive science-led growth through AI innovations, deep tech startups, and enhanced infrastructure sharing. The meeting emphasized the pivotal role of the newly formed Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and national missions like the Geospatial initiative.
ANRF’s Vision and Leadership
Dr. Jitendra Singh engaged in detailed discussions with Prof. Abhay Karandikar, ANRF’s newly appointed CEO, and Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, among other senior officials. Dr. Kalyanaraman presented ANRF’s ambitious roadmap, inspired by global models like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and DARPA. The foundation aims to introduce catalytic funding, deepen private industry integration, and launch strategic missions to boost India’s scientific ecosystem.
Empowering Startups with Deep Tech Innovation
A key highlight was the upcoming “Small Business Deep Tech Innovation” program, designed to empower startups and MSMEs to scale breakthrough technologies for real-world applications. This initiative aligns with India’s vision of fostering technological self-reliance and global competitiveness, building on the success of over 88,000 startups and 107 unicorns as of 2023.
Cloud of Research Infrastructure
To maximize underutilized research facilities, ANRF plans to launch a “Cloud of Research and Innovation Infrastructure”, a digital platform granting deep tech startups and academic institutions access to high-end scientific equipment nationwide. This move aims to democratize research capabilities, particularly for smaller players, fostering innovation across regions like Jammu and North Eastern states.
AI-for-Science Initiative
The “AI-for-Science” initiative stole the spotlight, aiming to accelerate discoveries in physics, chemistry, and biology using machine learning to model complex scientific equations. Dr. Singh directed ANRF to launch select projects swiftly and demonstrate tangible results, while also urging engagement with university Vice Chancellors to promote collaboration.
Medical Research Parks and India AI Open Stack
Dr. Singh proposed that ANRF support medical colleges in establishing medical research parks to spur clinical innovation and biotech entrepreneurship. He also advocated for an indigenous “India AI Open Stack”, a tailored AI architecture for Indian researchers, positioning India as a leader in AI-driven scientific applications.
From Deep Science to Deep Tech
Emphasizing “deep science-to-deep tech acceleration”, the Minister urged ANRF to convert academic outputs like publications and patents into commercial technologies. He stressed partnerships with industry leaders and the adoption of venture-builder models to ensure innovations reach the market, citing successful quantum startups like QPi AI and QNU Labs.
Prioritizing National Relevance
Dr. Singh directed ANRF to focus on areas of national importance, including climate forecasting, material science, aerospace, biochemistry, and drug development. He called for an integrated ecosystem linking research, startups, and industry, building on initiatives like the National Quantum Mission and BharatGen.
Conclusion
Dr. Jitendra Singh’s review underscores India’s ambition to become a global leader in science and technology. With ANRF’s innovative programs and DST’s focus on AI and deep tech, India is poised to transform research into impactful solutions.
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