How India can become a deep-tech powerhouse

India granted over 100,000 patents last year —a big surge compared to pre-pandemic data.

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This was based on increased activity in frontier technologies — or, deep tech— such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, renewable energy, space tech, semiconductors, and biotech. These innovations are based on advanced science and engineering aimed at solving complex problems.Patent rights offer a legally recognised exclusive opportunity to startups to commercialise their inventions. They serve as a defensive mechanism and catalyst for innovation-led growth. Patents also help secure funding, protect inventions from imitators, and enable collaborations. In 2025, Indian deep tech companies raised over $1 billion in equity funding. Investors are seeking patent portfolios asa prerequisite for funding

Deep tech startups create new industries and tackle challenges like the climate crisis, health care, space exploration, and efficiency in judiciary. Despite India’s global rank (sixth) in patent filings, converting patents into commercial products remains a challenge.

The real worth ofa patent lies in its commercial potential in the market. This makes it a “high-quality” patent. Successful startups com-mercialise patents by bridging the academia-in-dustry divide and building a viable business model.

The government has provided more research funding and incubation programmes. Policies for startups include reduction in patent fee, expedited examination, and assistance for international filings through SIP-EIT scheme. The Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy, RDI Scheme for private sector, Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, SAMRIDH program for IT, and iDEX scheme for the defence sector are laudable initiatives.