Launch Date: 2nd August 2025 | Application Deadline: 2nd September 2025
NCG - KCDO is partnering with India AI, part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), to launch the India AI - NCG Cancer AI & Technology Challenge (CATCH), supported by Axis Bank CSR. This initiative is designed to catalyze the validation, piloting, and deployment of AI solutions that can transform cancer care delivery across India.
The India AI - NCG CATCH Grant Program aims to bridge the gap between AI research and real - world clinical application by supporting AI innovators and oncology experts to co - develop contextually grounded, clinically relevant, and ethically aligned technologies. Through a structured grant program and access to the NCG network of hospitals, the Challenge will support impactful solutions in early screening, diagnostics, treatment support, patient engagement, and system - level optimization for cancer care.
To amplify innovation and expand outreach, NCG has partnered with NASSCOM (www.nasscom.in), India's leading industry association with a vibrant network of over 3,000 DeepTech and AI startups. NASSCOM will play the role of an outreach partner and help NCG increase participation in the CATCH grant.
We’re looking for innovations leveraging AI in the following areas:
Registered entity in India or Autonomous body in India, including public sector organisations, non - profit organisations, research institutions, and academic institutions.
| Milestone | Indicative Timeline |
|---|---|
| Launch of the CATCH Grant Program | 2 August 2025 |
| Information Webinar / Virtual Q&A with Applicants | 21 August 2025 |
| Application Submission Last Date | 2 September 2025 |
| Eligibility Screening & Completeness Check | 3 - 13 September 2025 |
| Virtual Presentation to CATCH Expert Panel | 16 - 27 September 2025 |
| Clinical - Technical Partner Matchmaking (if applicable) | 30 September - 18 October 2025 |
| Due Diligence by India AI - NCG CATCH Committee | 21 October - 8 November 2025 |
| Final Approval and Grant Award | 10 - 22 November 2025 |
| IEC (Institutional Ethics Committee) Approval | 25 November 2025 - 28 February 2026 |
| Grant Disbursement: Tranche 1 | February 2026 onwards |
| Tranche 2 & Scale - up Grant Disbursement | Rolling, based on project outcomes |
| Final Evaluation & Knowledge Dissemination | As applicable |
For questions: Write to us at fellow1.gpai-india@meity.gov.in & ncgkcdoceo@tmc.gov.in
with CC to sudheer.reddy@meity.gov.in
Help us shape the future of cancer care in India through responsible, scalable, and impactful AI innovation.
Join the CATCH Grant Program today.