Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC)
04.11.2025
Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC)
Context and Replacement
The Emerging Science, Technology, and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) marks a transformative phase in India’s scientific ecosystem, replacing the century-old Indian Science Congress. The three-day event in New Delhi brings together over 3,000 participants, including Nobel Laureates, industry leaders, researchers, and students, to redefine India’s research priorities.
Vision and Core Focus Areas
Conceptualized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ESTIC aims to shift India’s focus from food security to nutrition security, integrating science and technology with public welfare, sustainability, and national development.
Key Focus Areas:
- Biofortified Crops: Researching nutrient-rich varieties to combat malnutrition.
- Affordable Fertilizers: Promoting low-cost, eco-friendly fertilizers for sustainable agriculture.
- Genomic Biodiversity Mapping: Enabling precision healthcare through genome mapping.
- Clean Battery Innovation: Developing affordable and clean battery solutions for energy storage.
- Other Frontier Technologies: Focus on AI, Blue Economy, Advanced Materials, Digital Communication, Health Tech, Environment, and Space Science.
Funding and Institutional Mechanism
A ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Fund, managed by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), has been set up to promote high-risk, high-impact research. The initiative aims to attract public–private partnerships, strengthen India’s R&D base, and encourage industry-led innovation.
Conclusion
By evolving into ESTIC, India is reimagining its scientific engagement model to align with the “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision. The conclave emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and societal relevance, positioning itself as the nation’s premier platform for driving transformative science, technology, and innovation.