Gujarat government on Sunday unveiled its Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy 2026–2031 that aims to create 1 lakh highly skilled research professionals, achieve 1,000 annual IP filings, and launch ₹1,000 crore dedicated innovation fund to support indigenous technology development and reduce import dependence.
The new policy unveiled by Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel at Gandhinagar builds on the foundations of the previous STI framework and is designed to foster advanced capabilities in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, IoT, advanced connectivity (5G/6G), robotics, semiconductors, quantum technologies, AR/VR/XR, space tech, clean energy, mobility solutions, and biotechnology.
At the same time, it seeks to drive value addition and innovation in Gujarat’s traditional sectors including chemicals, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, engineering, agro and food processing, and gems & jewellery.
To translate this vision into action, the policy outlines the establishment of flagship S&T clusters, starting with Ahmedabad–Gandhinagar, followed by Vadodara–Surat, Rajkot–Bhavnagar, Junagadh–Jamnagar, and Kachchh. These clusters will integrate academia, industry, and civic bodies to create a collaborative innovation ecosystem.
The innovation fund of ₹1,000 crore will provide financial support to innovators, institutions, and organizations developing indigenous technology, software, and machinery. It will also incentivize high-impact research projects in critical national and state-priority sectors.
R&D lab funding will be increased by 20 per cent annually, supporting over 100 high-impact research projects each year.
A significant focus of the policy is intellectual property generation. Gujarat aims to achieve 1,000 IP filings annually, including at least 500 patents and 100 global filings, supported by the creation of 200+ IP Facilitation Centres across universities and R&D hubs.
The policy also targets human capital development, seeking to cultivate a pool of 1 lakh research professionals with expertise in emerging technologies by 2031, addressing the growing demand for skilled personnel in high-tech sectors and ensuring a globally competitive workforce.
The Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of Gujarat, will be the nodal department for policy implementation, while GUJCOST will coordinate execution, monitoring, and stakeholder engagement. Detailed schemes for implementation will be issued by DST with government approval.
Published on March 1, 2026
