• Government removes mandatory three-year eligibility rule for deep-tech startups under DSIR
• Move aims to support early-stage innovators and help startups scale faster
• Over 10,000 women beneficiaries already supported through DSIR initiatives

The government has removed the mandatory three-year existence requirement for deep-tech startups seeking recognition under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion Programme of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). This decision is expected to make it easier for young and early-stage startups to access government support and grow faster.

The announcement was made on the occasion of DSIR’s 42nd Foundation Day by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh. He explained that while the proposed Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund is meant for startups that have reached a certain level of technological maturity, the removal of the three-year condition will open doors for newer deep-tech companies.

According to the minister, early-stage innovators already have access to several support schemes across government bodies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Technology Development Board (TDB). However, earlier financial support from institutions like CSIR required startups to prove stability by showing at least three years of operations. Removing this condition is expected to give startups more flexibility and confidence in their early growth phase.

Highlighting women’s participation, Singh said that more than 10,000 women are currently benefiting from DSIR schemes. This includes over 55 women-led self-help groups, showing steady progress in inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship.

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The minister also noted that India has moved beyond the idea of self-reliance alone and is now becoming a global provider of technology and innovation. From vaccines and medical devices to indigenous technologies, India has shifted from being import-dependent to exporting products worth several crores, reflecting rising global trust in Indian science and research capabilities.