The Centre has relaxed DSIR norms deep-tech startups by removing the mandatory three-year eligibility condition under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion Programme. This decision will help DSIR norms deep-tech startups access support at an earlier stage and speed up innovation.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh said the move gives timely relief to young innovators working on advanced technologies. He explained that the change will strengthen India’s startup ecosystem by offering early momentum to promising ideas.
The Minister noted that the Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund targets startups with proven technological maturity. However, several schemes already support early-stage innovators through departments like DST, CSIR and TDB. By removing the three-year condition, the government allows deep-tech startups to scale faster.
Earlier, CSIR linked financial assistance, including loans of up to Rs 1 crore, to a minimum three-year existence. The government has now removed this requirement, while evaluation will still focus on technological maturity.
Addressing DSIR’s Foundation Day, the Minister highlighted strong industry participation and rising women involvement, with over 10,000 women beneficiaries. He also launched revised DSIR guidelines, new PRISM initiatives and a Disaster Management Plan, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in innovation.
