Gujarat launches ambitious technology policy
Gujarat STI Policy 2026–2031 Strengthens Innovation Ecosystem: The Government of Gujarat has launched the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy 2026–2031 to accelerate research, innovation, and indigenous technology development. The policy was announced in Gandhinagar by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
A key highlight of the policy is the creation of a ₹1,000 crore Innovation Fund to support research institutions, startups, and technology-driven industries. The policy aims to transform Gujarat into a leading hub for advanced technology, research talent, and innovation-led economic growth.
Static GK fact: Gujarat was formed in 1960 after the division of the Bombay State and its capital is Gandhinagar.
Major targets under the policy
The STI Policy 2026–2031 sets clear targets to strengthen the state’s research and innovation capacity. The government plans to create 1 lakh highly skilled research professionals by 2031 across emerging technology sectors.
Another major objective is to achieve 1,000 intellectual property filings every year, including at least 500 patents and 100 international filings. The state also proposes to establish more than 200 Intellectual Property Facilitation Centres to assist innovators and startups.
These measures aim to encourage technology commercialization, research collaborations, and knowledge-based industries.
Static GK Tip: India adopted its first National Science and Technology Policy in 1958, marking the beginning of organized scientific development.
₹1,000 crore innovation fund for research
The newly announced ₹1,000 crore Innovation Fund will finance high-impact research projects, startup innovation, and indigenous technology development. The fund will particularly focus on developing software, machinery, and technology solutions within India.
In addition, the state plans to increase funding for research and development laboratories by 20% annually. This financial support is expected to enable over 100 high-impact research projects every year.
The policy also seeks to reduce import dependence in critical technology sectors, thereby strengthening domestic manufacturing and technological self-reliance.
Focus on emerging technologies
The policy prioritizes cutting-edge sectors that will shape the future global economy. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and advanced connectivity such as 5G and 6G.
Other important sectors include biotechnology, clean energy technologies, mobility solutions, space technology, and immersive technologies like AR/VR/XR. These fields are expected to generate high-value jobs, research breakthroughs, and industrial innovation.
Static GK fact: India’s first semiconductor manufacturing mission was launched in 2021 to strengthen domestic chip production capabilities.
Innovation in traditional industries
While focusing on emerging technologies, the policy also aims to modernize Gujarat’s established industrial sectors. Key industries targeted for technological upgradation include chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, engineering, agro-processing, and gems and jewellery.
By integrating advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and research inputs, these industries are expected to improve global competitiveness and value addition.
Science and technology clusters
The policy proposes the creation of regional Science and Technology clusters to promote collaboration between academia, industry, and government institutions. These clusters will be established in Ahmedabad–Gandhinagar, Vadodara–Surat, Rajkot–Bhavnagar, Junagadh–Jamnagar, and Kachchh.
The implementation of the policy will be overseen by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat, while the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) will coordinate execution and monitoring.
These clusters aim to strengthen technology transfer, research commercialization, and startup incubation, thereby building a robust innovation ecosystem.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Gujarat STI Policy 2026–2031 Strengthens Innovation Ecosystem:
| Topic | Detail |
| Policy | Gujarat Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2026–2031 |
| Launch | Announced by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel |
| Key Financial Provision | ₹1,000 crore Innovation Fund |
| Research Talent Target | 1 lakh research professionals by 2031 |
| Intellectual Property Goal | 1,000 IP filings annually |
| Patent Target | 500 patents and 100 global filings per year |
| Technology Focus | AI, semiconductors, biotechnology, robotics, quantum tech |
| Industry Focus | Chemicals, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, agro-processing, gems |
| Cluster Locations | Ahmedabad–Gandhinagar, Vadodara–Surat, Rajkot–Bhavnagar, Junagadh–Jamnagar, Kachchh |
| Implementing Agencies | Department of Science and Technology Gujarat and GUJCOST |
