Government Announces Special Relaxation for Deep-Tech Startups in DSIR Recognition Process The Government of India announced on 6 January a significant relaxation in the rules governing financial assistance for deep-tech startups from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). Under the revised guidelines, the mandatory requirement of a minimum three-year operational period for deep-tech startups to receive financial support has been removed. This move is aimed at accelerating innovation and providing early-stage support to technology-driven startups. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh during the 42nd Foundation Day celebration of DSIR. He stated that under the department’s Industrial Research and Development Promotion Programme (IRDPP), eligible deep-tech startups can now receive financial assistance of up to ₹1 crore without fulfilling the earlier three-year viability criterion. Previously, DSIR provided funding under IRDPP only to startups that had demonstrated sustainability and commercial viability for at least three years. Describing the reform as a major incentive, Dr. Singh said that removing the three-year existence requirement would help deep-tech startups grow rapidly before they become fully self-sustaining. However, he clarified that startups would still be required to maintain appropriate evaluation standards related to technological maturity. The decision is expected to give early momentum not only to projects but also to promising innovators and entrepreneurs. Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister noted that while the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund has generated unprecedented enthusiasm across the country, it is primarily designed to support startups that have already achieved a certain level of technological maturity.