Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh and the UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, co-chaired the 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council (SIC) meeting in New Delhi today.
During the high-level meeting, both leaders reviewed ongoing bilateral scientific cooperation and explored new avenues to deepen partnerships in critical technologies, industry-led research, and commercialisation. As a major highlight of the event, Dr Jitendra Singh and Jonathan Reynolds jointly inaugurated the BRIC-CDFD–ONT India Genomics Centre of Excellence, establishing a premier facility for advanced genomic research and technology translation.
Building on the India–UK Technology Security Initiative and India–UK Vision 2035, the council reaffirmed its commitment to joint R&D across emerging strategic fields, including Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, critical minerals, advanced materials, biotechnology, and net-zero technologies.
Notably, eight joint projects supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Innovate UK are already underway in areas like advanced manufacturing and power electronics.
The delegation included high-ranking representatives, including Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Sood and British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron. Both nations emphasised that aligning civilian R&D with industrial capabilities will drive solutions for global challenges such as climate science, antimicrobial resistance, and healthcare.
An engaging look into India’s growing scientific leadership and international research collaborations can be found in this Dr Jitendra Singh science news video, highlighting key initiatives shaping the nation’s innovation landscape.
