On the sidelines of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, addressed a Round Table of institutional leaders from across the country. The session saw participation from heads of prominent research and development (R&D) institutes, vice chancellors of universities, and industry leaders.
During his address, Dr. Singh emphasized the need for a robust linkage between startups and industries as a key driver of India’s sustainable economic growth. He called for a collaborative approach where research, academia, startups, and industry work in synergy to push the country forward in its journey to become a developed nation.
Dr. Singh also highlighted India’s unique advantage in combining its rich traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technology, which provides a competitive edge on the global stage. He referred to this fusion of tradition and modern science as an exclusive “Indian cocktail,” setting the country apart in the field of innovation.
Praising the establishment of the National Research Foundation, the Minister noted that it would foster deeper collaboration between public and private sectors, both domestically and internationally. He also drew attention to the success of India’s biotech and space industries, such as space startups, vaccine development, and the Lavender Innovation Project, all of which stand as testimony to the nation’s scientific prowess.
Dr. Singh further stressed the importance of aligning scientific research with industry needs, noting that private sector investments play a vital role in sustaining startups and creating a thriving innovation ecosystem. He urged industry leaders to not only participate in research but also actively shape its direction.
He also spoke about the necessity of integrating cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing, and sustainable manufacturing into India’s research and education frameworks. This, he emphasized, is essential for the country’s future readiness.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Singh underscored the importance of channeling the confidence and momentum built under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership into actionable plans. He called for a unified vision within the scientific community to leverage collective strength for national progress, positioning science as the driving force behind India’s emergence as a global leader in innovation.
The conference concluded with the signing of the Guwahati Science Declaration – 2024, further cementing the commitment to fostering collaboration and scientific advancement in India.
