Govt Relaxes DSIR Norms to Boost Deep-Tech Startups

In a major boost to Indias innovation ecosystem, the government has announced a key relaxation for deep-tech startups. By easing eligibility norms for official recognition, the move is expected to help young technology-driven enterprises scale faster. The decision reflects growing confidence in India’s startup capabilities and the government’s push to position the country as a global innovation hub.

Why in the News?

The Government of India has removed the mandatory three-year existence condition for deep-tech startups to avail recognition under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion Program of DSIR. The announcement was made at the 41st Foundation Day (On 4th January) of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research in New Delhi.

What Is the DSIR Recognition Relaxation?

• Earlier, startups were required to complete three years of existence to be recognized under the DSIR framework.
• This condition has now been removed for deep-tech startups, allowing them to access recognition and related benefits at a much earlier stage.
• The reform is designed to support startups during their most vulnerable growth phase, when access to institutional support is crucial.

Government’s Rationale Behind the Move

• Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that the reform demonstrates the government’s trust in Indian innovators.
• He noted that early recognition will help deep-tech startups scale faster, even before they become financially self sustaining.
• According to the minister, this step signals confidence in the intent, capability, and long-term sustainability of India’s startup ecosystem.

Deep-Tech and India’s Strategic Sectors

• Deep-tech startups work in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, space technology, clean energy, and advanced materials.
• The minister highlighted that India has already opened up space and nuclear sectors to private participation under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
• To match these reforms, the government plans to further accelerate support for cutting-edge research and innovation.

New Initiatives to Strengthen R&D Ecosystem

• Along with the relaxation, several initiatives were unveiled to strengthen India’s R&D landscape.
• These include Guidelines for Recognition of In-House R&D, establishment of Centres of Deep Tech Startups, launch of the PRISM Network Platform  TOCIC Innovator Pulse, and Creative India 2025 under the PRISM scheme.
• These measures aim to connect innovators, industry, and government support systems more effectively.

DSIR and Startup Support

• The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) functions under the Ministry of Science and Technology and plays a key role in promoting industrial research, innovation, and technology development.
• Recognition under DSIR enables startups and companies to access incentives, policy support, and credibility within the innovation ecosystem.
• Relaxing entry barriers is seen as essential for nurturing next-generation technologies.

Significance for Aatmanirbhar Bharat

• The reform aligns with India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where domestic innovation drives economic growth and strategic autonomy.
• By empowering deep-tech startups early, India aims not only to become self-reliant but also a country that other nations increasingly depend on for advanced technologies.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q1. The three-year existence condition was removed for deep-tech startups to avail recognition under which body?

A. NITI Aayog
B. Department of Science and Technology
C. Department of Scientific and Industrial Research
D. Startup India Mission: