India has entered a new era of innovation and scientific leadership. In a landmark moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the country’s first Quantum Computing Chip and announced a ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund at the inaugural Emerging Science and Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 held in New Delhi. The event marks a turning point in India’s ambition to become a global leader in advanced science, defence technology, and digital innovation, showcasing the nation’s growing confidence in its own research capabilities.

ESTIC 2025: Imagine, Innovate, Inspire

Held under the inspiring theme “Imagine, Innovate, Inspire,” ESTIC 2025 is envisioned as a flagship annual event to unite India’s innovation ecosystem. Over 3,000 participants, including Nobel laureates, scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, gathered to celebrate India’s scientific progress. The conclave serves as a platform to encourage collaboration across academia, research institutions, industries, and government, all working together to strengthen the nation’s science and technology vision. 

The Quantum Computing Breakthrough

At the heart of ESTIC 2025 lies a groundbreaking achievement: India’s first Quantum Computing Chip. Developed through years of dedicated research by Indian scientists and engineers, this chip represents a quantum leap in computing power. Unlike traditional computers that use bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers use qubits, enabling them to perform complex calculations in seconds that would take classical systems years. 

This milestone positions India among the very few countries, such as the United States, China, and Japan, that have developed indigenous quantum computing technology. More than just a scientific achievement, this innovation is set to revolutionize sectors such as national defence, cybersecurity, space research, artificial intelligence, and healthcare, paving the way for India’s technological independence.

Powering Private-Led Innovation

Alongside the chip launch, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, a landmark move that highlights India’s transition toward a private sector-driven research ecosystem. This ambitious initiative aims to empower private companies and startups working on next-generation technologies while fostering collaborative projects between academia and industry to accelerate innovation. The fund will particularly focus on deep-tech areas such as biotechnology, robotics, renewable energy, and quantum computing—domains that are crucial for shaping the nation’s technological future.

Uniting India’s Innovation Ecosystem

The launch of ESTIC 2025 also reflects a broader national vision—to unite India’s fragmented innovation ecosystem into one cohesive and collaborative force. The conclave serves as a common platform that brings together startups working on frontier technologies, universities and research institutions developing new scientific models, government agencies shaping supportive policies, and industry leaders offering funding and mentorship. By connecting these diverse yet complementary stakeholders, ESTIC fosters an environment where ideas flow freely, partnerships thrive, and collaboration replaces competition.

A Boost to National Defence and Cybersecurity

The development of India’s quantum chip carries special significance for the country’s national defence and cybersecurity sectors. Quantum computing has the power to encrypt and decode information at unprecedented speeds, making it an essential tool for secure communication, surveillance, and digital warfare preparedness. With rising global cyber threats, this innovation ensures that India’s defence and intelligence systems are secure, independent, and future-ready.

A Vision Beyond Today

The launch of India’s first quantum chip and the RDI Fund isn’t just a moment of pride; it’s a promise for the future. A future where India leads global research, develops sustainable technologies, and empowers every curious mind to innovate without fear. Under PM Modi’s leadership, the message is clear: the next big idea in science and technology should not come from abroad; it should be Made in India.