Deep Tech Startup vs. Regular Tech Startup, National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP)

National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP)

• Context (TH I PIB): The Draft National Deep Tech Startup Policy (NDTSP) is published by Principal Scientific Adviser.

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) was established By GoI in 1999. The PSA’s office aims to provide pragmatic and objective advice to the PM and cabinet in matters of Science and Technology. The Office of PSA was placed under the Cabinet Secretariat in 2018.

• Deep Technology refers to innovations founded on advanced technological breakthroughs.
• The NDTSP is strategically formulated to stimulate innovation through the effective utilization of deep tech driven innovations.
• The goal is to ensure India’s global prominence in the deep tech value chain, with a specific focus on areas such as semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and space technology.
• They have the potential to solve most pressing societal issues due to their disruptive nature.

What is the difference between a Deep Tech Startup and a Regular Tech Startup?

• The main difference between them is the nature of the technology involved.
• Deep tech startups use cutting-edge technologies which are in the early stages of development.
• They face more challenges than regular tech startups, such as the need for more funding and the difficulty of commercializing their products.

Challenges Faced by Deep-Tech Start-ups

• High cost in Research and Development.
• Long development timeline.
• Regulatory hurdles add to the cost and complexity of development and commercialization.
• The scarcity of talent, especially in early-stage startups.
• Competition from large companies.
• Uncertainty in demand and changes in Technology.

Some examples of deep tech startups in India and their applications Agnikul Cosmos: Agnikul Cosmos is a space technology startup that is developing small satellite launch vehicles. CropIn: CropIn is a farm management startup that uses satellite imagery and artificial intelligence to help farmers improve their crop yields. Niramai: Niramai is a healthcare startup that is developing breast cancer screening technology using thermal imaging.

Artifical Intelligence is covered in July 2023 Current Affairs