India is accelerating its focus on quantum technology, artificial intelligence and indigenous innovation as the government expands support for deep-tech research and commercialization. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said quantum and AI sovereignty will play a major role in shaping India’s next-generation economic growth and national security framework.

Speaking at a Technology Development Board event in New Delhi on May 16, the minister said India’s future in deep-tech sectors will depend on a “trusted integrated approach” backed by strong domestic ecosystems and private investment in research.

Government Launches High-Impact Deep-Tech Projects

During the event, agreements were signed for five projects under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund Scheme. The initiative is designed to increase private investment in research, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.

The selected projects include indigenous lithium-ion battery production, modular satellite platform systems, regenerative medicine research, portable AI-enabled healthcare systems and unmanned helicopter technologies.

Among the major announcements, Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space signed an agreement for “Project Garud,” a modular satellite platform aimed at large-scale deployment. Bengaluru-based Eyestem Research received the first electronic fund transfer of ₹50 crore under the RDI initiative for advanced regenerative medicine research.

Officials said the RDI scheme has already received 124 proposals worth more than ₹25,000 crore from startups, MSMEs and private companies across sectors including biotechnology, space technology, quantum systems and energy transition.

Quantum-Safe Infrastructure Gains Strategic Importance

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the growing importance of post-quantum cryptography and quantum-safe infrastructure systems. He warned that future quantum computing capabilities could challenge current encryption systems used in banking, telecom and government infrastructure.

India’s National Quantum Mission aims to strengthen quantum communication, sensing and computing capabilities. According to the minister, the country has already achieved nearly half of its 2,000-kilometer quantum-secure communication target ahead of schedule.

Focus On Innovation-Led Economic Growth

Government officials said the RDI framework is expected to support long-term innovation, attract private capital and help Indian startups build globally competitive technologies. The initiative is also linked to the broader goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047.