RDI scheme by TDB: Govt clarifies on selection process, conflict of interest; calls reports misleading
New Delhi, July 31
The government on Friday said that media reports regarding the alleged conflict of interest in the disbursement of funds to companies under the Research, Development and Innovation Scheme by the Technology Development Board are "misleading, incorrect, and lack proper context".
The Ministry of Science and Technology shared facts regarding the robust evaluation mechanisms, strict conflict of interest guidelines, and merit-based selection processes followed by TDB.
It said that a comprehensive and robust 'Conflict of Interest' policy is firmly in place at TDB.
"This policy has been followed systematically over a long period without any complaint, grievance, or irregularity reported from any quarter," the ministry further stated.
The rigour and merit-based selection process of TDB is further validated by independent external assessments.
Out of the 22 projects approved by TDB in its first cohort, 15 projects were independently selected by separate expert panels constituted by the Ministry of Education, following which they represented India at the prestigious Bharat Innovate Event held in Nice, France.
"This independent validation clearly demonstrates that the selected companies are truly cutting-edge Deep-Tech innovators, chosen entirely on technical merit, innovation potential, and national importance," according to the statement.
Prior to the commencement of the first Investment Committee (IC) meeting, TDB framed detailed Pre-Investment Guidelines /Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs).
"These guidelines explicitly lay down the conditions under which a potential conflict of interest arises. Whenever a member has a potential conflict, the policy mandates full disclosure and complete recusal of the concerned member from all discussions and decision-making processes regarding that entity," said the ministry.
Moreover, it stated that TDB has strictly adhered to these guidelines in true spirit.
All funding decisions were taken purely on merit as per the Implementation Guidelines of the RDI Fund, with zero involvement of any conflicted members during the evaluation or sanction process of concerned proposals, according to the official statement.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While the clarification is reassuring, I wish the government would proactively share such details instead of reacting to media reports. The RDI scheme has huge potential to boost our deep-tech ecosystem, but perceptions matter too. Let's hope the execution matches the intent. 🙏
Ye to bahut badhiya hai! Indian innovators need this kind of support. The conflict of interest policy seems solid - full disclosure and recusal is the gold standard. Especially impressed that they represented India at the Bharat Innovate Event in France. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳🚀
As someone who follows global innovation ecosystems, I appreciate the rigorous evaluation framework. But the media wouldn't report these stories without some basis. I hope TDB remains vigilant and publishes the actual evaluation criteria and project selection details publicly - that would end all speculation once and for all.
Finally, some clarity! The media often runs with half-baked stories without understanding the complete process. The fact that TDB has maintained this policy without any complaints over a long period shows their commitment. Also, having independent expert panels from the Ministry of Education adds another layer of credibility. 🙌
The process sounds robust, but the optics are important too. When you're handling public money, even the perception of conflict can be damaging. The government should consider appointing an external ombudsman for oversight. That would silence the critics and strengthen public trust. Just my two cents.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.