Gujarat has outlined an ambitious roadmap to strengthen its innovation ecosystem with the launch of the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy 2026–2031. The policy was unveiled by Bhupendra Patel during the inaugural session of the Gujarat SemiConnect Conference in Gandhinagar.
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The new framework seeks to position Gujarat among the world’s leading innovation-driven economies by placing science, technology and research at the heart of industrial growth and social development. According to government officials, the policy is designed to ensure that technological advancements translate into inclusive progress, improved competitiveness and long-term economic resilience.
A major feature of the policy is the creation of a ₹1,000 crore Swadeshi Anusandhan Fund. The fund is intended to accelerate indigenous research and reduce dependence on imports in strategic and emerging sectors. These include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, biotechnology, green energy, defence technology, immersive technologies and space technology.
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The Department of Science and Technology stated that the initiative will support more than 100 high-impact research projects every year, with a focus on strengthening domestic capabilities in frontier areas that are critical to national security and economic growth.
Another key component of the policy is the establishment of Gujarat Rajya Research and Innovation Clusters (GRRIC). This initiative aims to build a connected science and technology network across the state. The first phase will centre on the Gandhinagar–Ahmedabad region, with expansion planned for Vadodara–Surat and the Rajkot–Bhavnagar–Junagadh–Jamnagar belt.
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Each cluster will be anchored by advanced innovation and R&D hubs equipped with shared laboratories, testing facilities and collaborative platforms that bring together industry, academia and research institutions. By encouraging coordinated development rather than isolated efforts, the state hopes to create a stronger pipeline from research to commercialisation. Through the STI Policy 2026–2031, Gujarat is signalling its intent to move beyond manufacturing strength and build a knowledge-led economy driven by research, technology and homegrown innovation.
