Deep‑Tech Revolution in India 1. Government-Fueled Momentum Major funding boosts: Initiatives like the India AI Mission (₹10,372 crore over five years) and proposed deep-tech fund (₹20,000 crore) are propelling innovation Policy frameworks taking shape: Policies such as the National Deep Tech Startup Policy aim to streamline ecosystem growth from R&D to scaling 2. Startup Ecosystem Gains Ground Robust startup numbers: Over 3,600 deep‑tech startups exist in India today, including nearly 500 launched in 2023 alone Global competitiveness: Ranked 6th globally for deep-tech startups—AI dominates, showing 74% of new ventures and 86% of funded ones tied to AI 3. Sector Focus & R&D Intensity Core verticals targeted: AI, ML, robotics, quantum, biotech, advanced materials, drones, and blockchain are at the forefront drishtiias.com Long R&D cycles, far-reaching impact: Deep-tech requires intensive investment and patience but holds the promise of disruptive breakthroughs 4. Funding & Investment Trends Rising capital inflows: Globally, deep-tech is garnering 20% of annual VC funds (~$40 billion in 2023)—mirrored by India’s. India-specific investments: Deep‑tech startups like Observe.AI have logged major funding (e.g. $214 M), while national policy funds are being calibrated to match demand drishtiias.com . 5. Opportunities & Challenges 👉 Strengths: Deep talent pool—~1.5 million engineering grads annually—fuels innovation DPI backbone (UPI, Aadhaar, ONDC) supports scalable digital solutions . ⚠️ Challenges: Regulatory hurdles, commercialization lag, talent shortages, and infrastructure limitations persist Execution gaps are noted—policy intent doesn't always translate into action without public-private collaboration . 6. The Role of Thought Leaders Influencers like Jeenendra Bhandari (often leading deep-tech councils and VC platforms) typically emphasize: Aligning policy with operational execution. Encouraging patient, long‑term capital for high‑risk deep-tech ventures. Strengthening academia-industry synergies for commercializing R&D. Building market access pathways through anchor customers and public procurement. Source: Economic times #healthcarestartupindia #dseidehealthcarenetwork