Government Eases DSIR Norms for Deep-Tech Startups

The Union Government has removed the mandatory three-year existence requirement for deep-tech startups to gain recognition under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion (IRDP) programme of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. The move is aimed at accelerating innovation and enabling early-stage deep-tech firms to scale faster.

Major Reform Announced at DSIR Foundation Day

Addressing the 41st Foundation Day event of the “Department of Scientific and Industrial Research” in New Delhi, “Jitendra Singh”, Union Minister for Science and Technology, said that removing the three-year eligibility condition would significantly benefit deep-tech startups. He described the reform as a strong signal of the government’s trust in Indian innovators and confidence in their long-term sustainability and intent.

Boost for Early-Stage Innovation

The Minister noted that deep-tech startups often require early institutional support due to high research intensity, long gestation periods, and capital requirements. Allowing startups to access DSIR recognition at an earlier stage will help them leverage incentives, infrastructure, and credibility even before they become commercially established. The reform is expected to strengthen India’s innovation pipeline and reduce barriers for breakthrough technologies.

Part of Broader Structural Reforms

Dr Singh highlighted that the decision aligns with several path-breaking reforms undertaken under the leadership of “Narendra Modi”, including opening the nuclear and space sectors to private participation. He said the government would further accelerate initiatives to prepare the ecosystem for emerging and strategic technology domains, reinforcing India’s transition towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and global technological relevance.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• DSIR functions under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• Three-year existence condition for deep-tech startups has been removed.
• IRDP promotes industrial R&D and innovation.
• Reform supports early-stage deep-tech commercialisation.

New Initiatives for R&D and Innovation Ecosystem

During the event, the Minister also unveiled several initiatives to strengthen India’s research and innovation ecosystem. These include the rollout of new Guidelines for Recognition of In-House Research and Development Centres, Centres of Deep Tech Startups, the launch of the PRISM Network Platform TOCIC Innovator Pulse, and Creative India 2025 under the PRISM scheme. Together, these measures aim to deepen industry-academia collaboration, promote indigenous R&D, and position India as a trusted innovation partner globally.