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Govt’s Big Move: Relaxed DSIR Norms Empower India’s Deeptech Ecosystem

Swarnadwip Nath Published Jan 05, 2026, 12:00 AM Updated Sep 18, 2026, 10:20 AM

The government has relaxed the three-year existence rule for deeptech startups to gain DSIR recognition, enabling early-stage ventures to access R&D support, tax incentives, and credibility. Announced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh, the move aligns with India’s ₹1 lakh crore innovation fund and aims to accelerate growth in critical deeptech sectors.

In a significant boost to India’s innovation landscape, the Government of India has announced a relaxation of eligibility norms for deeptech startups seeking recognition under the DSIR’s Industrial Research and Development Promotion Programme. The decision was unveiled on January 4, 2026, during the 42nd Foundation Day of DSIR, marking a pivotal step toward empowering early-stage innovators.

Key highlights of the announcement include:

Relaxation of norms: Deeptech startups will no longer be required to demonstrate a minimum of three years of existence to qualify for DSIR recognition. This change directly benefits early-stage ventures that are often constrained by rigid timelines.

Government’s intent: Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the reform reflects the government’s “noble intent to accelerate and sustain new startups”, enabling them to scale faster and contribute to India’s innovation ecosystem.

Support ecosystem: The move complements existing schemes across departments such as DST, CSIR, and TDB, which already provide funding and incubation support to startups. DSIR recognition will now be more accessible, offering benefits like tax incentives, R&D support, and credibility for collaborations.

Strategic impact: By easing entry barriers, the government aims to strengthen India’s position in deeptech sectors such as AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and advanced materials, which are critical for global competitiveness.

Funding alignment: The relaxation is also linked to the recently announced ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation Fund, designed to provide financial backing to promising startups and entrepreneurs.

Industry experts believe this reform will encourage risk-taking among young innovators, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and foster a more vibrant startup ecosystem. For India, it signals a clear commitment to nurturing cutting-edge technologies that can drive economic growth and global leadership.

Sources: Lokmat Times, UNI India, Andhravilas

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