Scheme Overview & Objective
The ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) scheme is a flagship initiative by the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO). With a dedicated corpus of ₹750 Crores, ADITI aims to foster strategic deep tech innovations for the Indian Armed Forces. The scheme offers non-dilutive grants of up to ₹25 Crores per project to startups, MSMEs, and private innovators working on cutting-edge technologies such as Quantum Computing, AI in Command & Control, Hypersonic Guidance Systems, and more.
ADITI is designed to address high-risk, high-reward frontier technologies, ensuring India’s self-reliance in defense and aerospace. Selected companies collaborate closely with the Tri-Services (Army, Navy, Air Force) and DRDO labs, gaining access to military test ranges and fast-track procurement opportunities under the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP).
Eligibility Criteria & Scope
To apply for ADITI under iDEX, entities must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Entity Type: DPIIT-recognized Startups, MSMEs, or Indian private technology companies.
- Shareholding: At least 51% of the company’s equity must be owned and controlled by Indian resident citizens.
- R&D Capability: Proven deep tech R&D capability and senior engineering leadership.
- Challenge Response: Applications must be in response to officially notified ADITI strategic challenge statements.
- Technical Readiness: Demonstrate the ability to scale from TRL 3/4 to TRL 7/8.
- Security Vetting: Founders and core technical teams must undergo mandatory national security vetting.
Key Financial & Growth Benefits
ADITI under iDEX offers transformative benefits for selected entities:
- Massive Strategic Grant: Up to ₹25 Crores in non-dilutive funding distributed across engineering and testing milestones.
- Strategic Frontier Focus: Exclusive focus on transformative technologies like Quantum, Directed Energy, and AI warfare.
- Armed Forces Integration: Direct collaboration with Tri-Services operational commands to align technology with military doctrines.
- Subsidized Testing: Free access to national defense labs, high-altitude ranges, desert testbeds, and naval sea trials.
- 0% Equity Dilution: Retain full founder control and commercial market rights.
- Fast-Track Procurement: Eligibility for single-source procurement under Make-II / iDEX DAP rules.
Application Procedure & Documents
Follow this step-by-step process to apply for ADITI under iDEX in 2026:
Step 1: Prepare the Technical Proposal
Submit a detailed ADITI Technical Proposal including:
- Mathematical simulations and subsystem architecture.
- Bill of Materials (BOM) and itemized budget estimation across milestone deliverables.
Step 2: Compile Required Documents
Gather the following mandatory documents:
- Certificate of Incorporation, MoA / AoA, and Indian Shareholding Certificate (CA Certified).
- DPIIT Recognition Certificate and Udyam MSME Certificate.
- Security Undertaking and Promoter / Director KYC Documents.
- Audited Financials for the past 3 years (or Net Worth Certificate for early startups).
- Company Bank Account Details and Cancelled Cheque.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit your application in response to officially notified ADITI strategic challenge statements. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.
Step 4: Undergo Security Vetting
Founders and core technical teams must successfully complete mandatory national security vetting.
Official FAQs
Q1: What is the maximum grant amount under ADITI?
A: The maximum grant-in-aid is ₹25 Crores per project, distributed across rigorous engineering and testing milestones.
Q2: Who is eligible to apply for ADITI under iDEX?
A: DPIIT-recognized Startups, MSMEs, and Indian private technology companies with at least 51% Indian ownership are eligible.
Q3: What technologies are prioritized under ADITI?
A: ADITI focuses on strategic deep tech domains such as Quantum Computing, AI in Command & Control, Hypersonic Guidance Systems, and more.
Q4: Is there any equity dilution in ADITI funding?
A: No, ADITI offers 100% non-dilutive funding, preserving founder control and commercial rights.
Q5: How can selected companies benefit from ADITI?
A: Selected companies gain access to military test ranges, fast-track procurement, and collaboration with the Indian Armed Forces.
For more details and to apply, visit the official scheme page: ADITI under iDEX.
