India and Italy Strengthen Ties in Science, Technology, and Space Collaboration

New Delhi: Senior Italian Minister Adolfo Urso, holding portfolios including Enterprises and Space, met with Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who oversees Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Space, to advance bilateral cooperation during his official visit to India.

The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in science, technology, innovation, and space exploration. Dr. Singh welcomed Minister Urso, emphasizing the deep-rooted relationship between India and Italy and their shared commitment to progress through innovation.

“India and Italy share a vibrant history of scientific collaboration. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, we are taking proactive steps to foster innovation and technology partnerships that benefit both nations,” said Dr. Singh.

Italy expressed keen interest in expanding its cooperation with India in space technology and advanced manufacturing. Both sides highlighted the potential to address global challenges by leveraging joint expertise and developing innovative solutions.

A notable milestone in Indo-Italian scientific collaboration has been India’s extensive use of the Elettra Synchrotron facility in Trieste. Indian scientists rank as the second-largest users of this facility, benefiting from state-of-the-art diffraction beamlines developed jointly since 2016.

Dr. Singh announced that the upcoming Executive Programme of Cooperation for 2025–2027 would fund new joint research projects, reinforcing the trust and shared vision between the two nations.

Recognizing India’s rise as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, both ministers proposed an Indo-Italian Innovation and Incubation Exchange Programme. This initiative will connect startups, academic institutions, and policymakers, fostering entrepreneurship and shared expertise.

“India’s dynamic economy and thriving unicorns offer fertile ground for partnerships in entrepreneurship and innovation,” noted Dr. Singh.

With Minister Urso’s expertise in space, discussions delved into collaborative opportunities in satellite technology, deep-space exploration, and emerging space frontiers. Dr. Singh remarked, “India’s transformative space tech ecosystem offers immense potential for Indo-Italian ventures.”

The dialogue also explored partnerships in Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and quantum technologies. The ministers expressed intent to revive the dormant Industrial R&D Programme and create new pathways for academic and industrial cooperation, including for SMEs and startups.

Dr. Singh highlighted India’s focus on affordability and accessibility through initiatives like Make in India and Startup India. He proposed bilateral programs to facilitate knowledge exchange and exposure visits, aiming to deepen collaboration further.

Dr. Singh concluded, “This partnership is about building a shared future driven by innovation, inclusivity, and excellence. Together, we can achieve remarkable milestones that benefit our nations and the world.”

The meeting underscores the commitment of India and Italy to strengthening their ties and unlocking new avenues for growth and innovation in an ever-evolving global landscape.