Source: PIB
Subject: Government scheme
Context: The Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has unveiled the National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework (NTRAF) to create a uniform, evidence-based system for assessing technology maturity across India’s R&D ecosystem.
About National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework (NTRAF):
What it is?
- The National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework (NTRAF) is a standardised, objective framework to assess the maturity of technologies from early laboratory research to full commercial deployment using 9 Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs).
Ministry / Department:
- Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA) to the Government of India
- Developed in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
Aim:
- Establish a common language between researchers, investors and policymakers
- Enable evidence-based funding decisions under national R&D and mission-mode programmes
- Reduce the “Valley of Death” between TRL 4 and TRL 7 by de-risking promising deep-tech innovations
Key features:
- TRL-based assessment: Covers the full innovation cycle from Proof of Concept (TRL 1–3) to Prototype Development (TRL 4–6) and Operational Deployment (TRL 7–9).
- Objectivity over subjectivity: Uses structured, measurable checklists instead of narrative claims of readiness.
- Global best practices, Indian context: Adapted from international models (e.g., NASA TRLs) and customised for India’s research and industrial ecosystem.
- Sector-specific annexures: Tailored assessment pathways for domains such as Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals and Software, recognising sectoral differences.
- Self-assessment tool: Enables researchers and startups to identify technical gaps before applying for funding.
Significance:
- Improves efficiency of public R&D spending by aligning funding with actual technology maturity.
- Boosts private sector confidence by providing validated, investment-ready readiness benchmarks.
