RDI Scheme 2026: First Cohort of 19 Fund Managers Approved
The Government of India has announced the approval of the first cohort of 19 Second Level Fund Managers (SLFMs) under the Research, Development and Innovation Fund (RDIF). The announcement was published by the Press Information Bureau on 12 October 2026 under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
The approved cohort comprises 14 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) and five Focused Research Organisations (FROs). According to the official announcement, the total RDIF commitment for this group is ₹7,131 crore. The initiative aims to strengthen private-sector research, technology development, innovation and deep-tech investment in India.
Latest RDI Fund Update
Announcement date: 12 October 2026
Approved fund managers: 19
Fund structure: 14 AIFs and 5 FROs
Total commitment for the first cohort: ₹7,131 crore
Overall RDI Scheme outlay: ₹1 lakh crore over six years
What Is the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme?
The Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme is a Government of India initiative designed to encourage private-sector investment in research and development. It seeks to make long-term capital available for high-risk, high-impact innovation, support strategic technology development and help Indian enterprises develop globally competitive technologies and products.
The Union Cabinet approved the scheme on 1 July 2025. It was launched in November 2025 and has a total outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over six years. The scheme is intended to strengthen Indias innovation ecosystem and support technological self-reliance.
Key Details of the RDI Scheme 2026
| Scheme Name | Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme |
|---|---|
| Fund | Research, Development and Innovation Fund (RDIF) |
| Announcement Date | 12 October 2026 |
| First Cohort | 19 Second Level Fund Managers |
| AIFs Approved | 14 Alternative Investment Funds |
| FROs Approved | 5 Focused Research Organisations |
| First Cohort Commitment | ₹7,131 crore |
| Overall Scheme Outlay | ₹1 lakh crore over six years |
| Nodal Department | Department of Science and Technology (DST) |
| Fund Administration | Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) |
Why Have 19 Fund Managers Been Approved?
The RDI Fund follows a two-level funding structure. The fund is managed through a Special Purpose Fund established within the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), which channels capital to Second Level Fund Managers. These managers are expected to support eligible technology enterprises carrying out research, development and innovation activities.
The first cohort is an important step in making the fund operational at a larger scale. The approved institutions are expected to help direct long-term capital towards innovation projects and mobilise additional private investment alongside the RDIF contribution.
Which Areas May Benefit from the RDI Fund?
The RDI framework is intended to support strategic and emerging technology areas. Priority areas described on the official RDI Fund website include:
- Artificial intelligence and its applications.
- Quantum technologies and robotics.
- Space and other strategic technologies.
- Biotechnology and healthcare innovation.
- Energy security, energy transition and climate action.
- Technology development in agriculture and the digital economy.
- Deep-tech research, critical technologies and technology self-reliance.
Actual funding depends on the relevant fund manager, eligibility criteria, evaluation process and applicable scheme guidelines.
Will Individuals or Students Receive Direct Financial Assistance?
The RDI Scheme is not a general cash-benefit scheme for individuals or students. Its funding structure works through approved Second Level Fund Managers and eligible technology enterprises undertaking research, development and innovation activities. Applicants should review the official guidelines and the relevant fund manager requirements before submitting a proposal.
How to Check Official RDI Scheme Updates
- Visit the official Research, Development and Innovation Fund portal.
- Read the latest announcements and implementation guidelines.
- Check the notices and application information for Second Level Fund Managers.
- Review the relevant fund managers project call and eligibility conditions before applying for support.
- Use the official government announcement to verify changes in the scheme or its implementation.
Important Official Links
- PIB Official Announcement: First Cohort of 19 Fund Managers
- Official RDI Fund Portal
- Department of Science and Technology – RDI Scheme
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the latest update on the RDI Scheme?
The Government of India announced the first cohort of 19 Second Level Fund Managers on 12 October 2026.
2. What is the total commitment for the first cohort?
The official announcement states a total commitment of ₹7,131 crore for the first cohort.
3. How many AIFs and FROs have been approved?
The first cohort comprises 14 Alternative Investment Funds and five Focused Research Organisations.
4. What is the total outlay of the RDI Scheme?
The scheme has an overall outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over six years.
5. Is the RDI Scheme a direct benefit scheme for students?
No. It is designed to channel funding through approved fund managers to eligible technology enterprises and research and innovation activities, subject to scheme rules.
6. Where can I find official guidelines?
Visit the official RDI Fund portal at https://rdifund.anrf.gov.in/ and review its announcements, guidelines and application information.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and is based on the official government announcement available at the time of writing. Funding eligibility, application opportunities and implementation details are governed by the official scheme guidelines and the relevant fund manager notices. This is not a direct individual cash-benefit announcement.
