The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), together with the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Ministry of Earth Sciences, launched the MAHA Drones programme on components and sub-assemblies research and innovation. The pre-proposal window ran from 27 April to 26 May 2026.
The programme starts from a simple observation: India is strong in drone applications and assembly but less developed in foundational technologies at component level. It invites consortia, needs at least one industry or startup partner, and follows a two-stage process (concept note first, full proposal for shortlisted teams). A central integrator may be appointed to turn the sub-systems into deployable drone platforms. Further cycles of the call are possible.
One aggregator reports funding of up to ₹50 crore per project; applicants should refer to the official call document for the final figures.
What it means for RPTOs and pilots: RPTOs with academic or industry links can explore partnerships and become testing and training partners for new indigenous systems.
Sources: ANRF programme page and FAQ; fundsforNGOs (18 May 2026); PhDTalks (21 Apr 2026).
