New Delhi, July 29 -- The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is aiming to operationalize the Rs 1 lakh crore Research Development and Innovation(RDI) schemeby December 2025, with plans to mobilise private sector investment in critical and sunrise technologies, including6G, 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 theAnusandhan 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...