Indo-French Joint Committee Explores Ways to Enhance Scientific Collaboration

New Delhi: The second meeting of the Indo-French Joint Committee of Science and Technology (JCST) convened today to deliberate on strategies to bolster the Indo-French scientific partnership. Chaired by Prof Abhay Karandikar, Secretary for the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and Dr Claire Giry, Director General for Research and Innovation at the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, the committee discussed avenues for intensified collaboration in emerging technologies.

Professor Karandikar underscored the success of the CEFIPRA model, emphasizing its potential to enhance research partnerships in cutting-edge technologies. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in areas such as ICPS, health, clean energy, AI, quantum technologies, and advanced materials. Additionally, he stressed the need for closer ties between innovators and entrepreneurs from both nations.

Dr Claire Giry emphasized the necessity for robust associations between researchers, focusing on sustainable technologies, applied mathematics, health, and ocean research. The meeting took place at the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) on the sidelines of the India International Science Festival (IISF).

The Indo-French scientific collaboration aligns seamlessly with the broader framework of the strategic partnership between India and France. The JCST, guided by the objectives of bilateral scientific cooperation, seeks to identify thematic priorities, allocate resources, and enhance tools for achieving mutual goals.

The committee, co-organized with the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, witnessed the participation of high-level representatives from both countries. The co-chairs reiterated the JCST’s role in catalyzing a stronger Indo-French scientific partnership. Key outcomes, including prioritized collaboration in health, decarbonized hydrogen, marine sciences, and applied mathematics, are expected to be endorsed during the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Macron on Republic Day. The outcomes will further reinforce the collaborative efforts to foster scientific advancements and cooperation between the two nations.

Key Points from the Meeting:

• Committee co-chaired by Prof Abhay Karandikar and Dr Claire Giry
• Emphasis on leveraging CEFIPRA model for collaboration in new-age technologies
• Focus on areas such as ICPS, health, clean energy, AI, quantum technologies, and advanced materials
• Call for increased collaboration between innovators and entrepreneurs of both countries
• Identified priorities include sustainable technologies, applied mathematics, health, and ocean research