India, July 26 -- The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is aiming to operationalise the Rs 1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme by December 2025, with plans to mobilise private sector investment in critical and sunrise technologies, including 6G, space, quantum, and biotechnology.

Approved by the Union Cabinet on 1 July 2025, the RDI scheme will operate through a Special Purpose Fund (SPF) embedded within the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). The SPF will act as the custodian of funds and allocate capital to multiple second-level fund managers, including alternate investment funds, development finance institutions, and focused research organisations.

Discussing the RDI roll-out plan with C...