SERB - POWER Research Grants 2026
The Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme aims to boost self-reliance in defence technology under the 'Make in Read More... India' initiative. Read less
Details
In a move to strengthen India's defence capabilities and promote indigenous innovation, the Ministry of Defence has launched the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme. This initiative is a key part of the 'Make in India' campaign, focusing on making the nation self-reliant in critical defence technologies.
What Is This Scheme?
The TDF Scheme is designed to encourage both public and private industries, with a special focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. It aims to build a robust ecosystem for developing cutting-edge defence technologies, fulfilling the needs of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force (Tri-Services), Defence Production entities, and the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).
Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?
This scheme primarily supports Indian entities looking to innovate in the defence sector. This includes registered companies, partnership firms, LLPs, and sole proprietorships, especially those identified as MSMEs or recognized startups. It's a fantastic opportunity for new ventures and established players to contribute to national security through technological advancements.
Why This Scheme Is Important
The TDF Scheme is crucial for driving innovation and enhancing India's self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing. By providing financial aid and fostering collaboration, it aims to accelerate the development of indigenous defence systems, reduce reliance on imports, and position India as a global leader in defence technology. The scheme supports projects with a development timeline of up to four years.
Objective
Benefits
Nature and Duration of Support :
POWER Grants will empower women researchers by funding them under the following two categories:
- Level I:The scale of funding up to ₹60 lakhs for three years.
- Level II:The scale of funding up to ₹30 lakhs for three years.
- The POWER Grant is provided for equipment, manpower, consumables, travel, and contingency. "Overheads" is also being provided to the implementing institution as per prevailing norms of SERB.
Note:POWER Grant will be regulated through terms of reference conforming to SERB-CRG guidelines.
Sources and references
Eligibility Criteria
- Business Registration: Must be a public limited company, private limited company, partnership firm, limited liability partnership, one-person company, or sole proprietorship registered in India. Special emphasis is placed on MSMEs and startups.
- Startup Recognition: Startups must be recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) as per Government of India guidelines.
- Nascent Startup Definition: Startups incorporated less than 3 years prior to the application submission date are considered nascent startups.
- Incubation Requirement: Nascent startups must be incubated at a Central/State government-assisted incubator.
- No Duplicate Grants: The startup must not have received grants or financial aid from any other government scheme for a similar technology.
- Indian Ownership: The startup must be owned and controlled by an Indian citizen, with at least 51% shareholding held by resident Indian citizens.
How To Apply
The Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme encourages participation from industries. For detailed application procedures and submission, please refer to the official notifications and links provided by the Ministry of Defence and DRDO.
Official Application Link:
For subsequent installments, the Designated Agencies (DAs) are required to submit specific project update reports and financial certificates.
Documents Required
For the release of subsequent installments to Designated Agencies (DAs), the following documents typically need to be submitted:
- Detailed Project Update Report
- Utilization Certificate & Statement of Expenses (UC & SE)
- Certificate from a Chartered Accountant
FAQ’s
What is the primary goal of the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme?
The main goal of the Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme is to promote self-reliance in defence technology as part of the 'Make in India' initiative. It's a programme run by the Ministry of Defence.
Who is responsible for implementing the TDF Scheme?
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) executes the TDF Scheme on behalf of the Ministry of Defence to meet the requirements of the Tri-Services, Defence Production, and DRDO itself.
What types of proposals are supported by the TDF Scheme?
The scheme supports proposals for significant upgrades to existing products/processes, advancing technology readiness levels (TRL 3 onwards), developing futuristic defence technologies, and substituting imported components whose technologies are not available in India.
Can a startup with foreign investment apply for this scheme?
No, an industry with more than 49% foreign investment is not eligible to apply for the TDF scheme.
Is there a cost to apply for the TDF Scheme?
No, you do not need to pay any service fee to DRDO or DTDF for applying to the scheme.
What is the maximum duration for a project under the TDF Scheme?
The maximum development period allowed for projects under the TDF Scheme is four (4) years.
Can a non-profit research institution apply independently?
Non-profit research institutions can participate, but only in collaboration with an Indian industry. The Indian industry must act as the Lead Bidder in such cases.
Can a single organization apply for more than one TDF project at the same time?
Yes, an organization is allowed to apply for multiple TDF projects simultaneously.
What if a startup has been around for more than 3 years, can it still apply?
The 'nascent startup' category applies to startups incorporated for less than 3 years. Other eligible entities like MSMEs and recognized startups can still apply, provided they meet all other criteria.
Does the scheme only support new product development?
No, the scheme supports significant upgrades or improvements to existing products and processes, as well as the development of futuristic technologies and import substitution.
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