The government has announced a major policy relief for deep tech startups by removing the mandatory three year existence requirement to avail recognition from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. This move is expected to significantly strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem by allowing early stage startups to access institutional support at a much earlier phase of their journey.
Deep tech ventures often operate in areas that demand high research intensity, long development cycles, and substantial upfront investment. Under the earlier framework, startups were required to complete at least three years of operations before becoming eligible for DSIR recognition, which limited access to funding incentives and research related benefits during their most critical formative years. By eliminating this condition, the government has acknowledged the unique challenges faced by innovation driven enterprises.
The relaxation is aimed at encouraging bold experimentation and accelerating the commercialisation of advanced technologies. Startups working in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, semiconductors, advanced materials, and clean energy are expected to benefit the most. With earlier access to recognition, these companies can now seek financial assistance, industry collaboration, and research support without waiting to establish a long operating history.
This policy shift also reflects a growing confidence in India’s startup ecosystem and its ability to generate globally competitive technologies. Instead of focusing solely on the age of a company, the revised approach places greater emphasis on technological merit, innovation potential, and long term impact. This is likely to improve the survival and scalability of deep tech startups that require sustained support during their initial years.
The decision aligns with the government’s broader vision of positioning India as a global hub for research driven innovation. By reducing regulatory barriers and easing access to institutional frameworks, the move is expected to attract more entrepreneurs into deep technology sectors and encourage greater private sector participation in research and development.
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