Indo-German Collaboration in Science and Technology Marks 50 Years of Success

New Delhi: India and Germany celebrated 50 years of fruitful collaboration in science and technology at a landmark event in New Delhi. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, and Federal Minister of Education and Research of Germany, Bettina Stark-Watzinger, jointly commemorated the Golden Jubilee, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the two nations.

Reflecting on the achievements of the past five decades, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the exponential growth in Indo-German collaboration over the last 10 years. “This is a golden jubilee of a golden collaboration,” Dr. Singh remarked. “What started 50 years ago has transformed into a robust, multi-faceted relationship that has touched almost every aspect of science and technology, from space exploration to biotechnology, and from climate action to artificial intelligence.”

The Minister credited the scientific communities of both countries for their dedication in advancing the bilateral relationship, expressing confidence that the next 50 years would bring even greater innovations and breakthroughs. He emphasized that India and Germany, together, will continue to address global challenges through cutting-edge research and technology.

Germany’s Federal Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger praised India’s strides in space and technology, especially the recent success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. “India has already shown its capability by landing on the moon and launching a probe to the sun. We have every reason to celebrate not just the past but also to look forward to future milestones in our cooperation,” she said.

The event also underscored the strategic importance of science and technology for improving the lives of ordinary citizens. Dr. Singh noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has ensured that scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and climate action. He highlighted the introduction of India’s Bio-E3 initiative, which focuses on biotechnology for the environment, economy, and employment, and the country’s remarkable rise from 50 biotech startups to over 8,000 in just 10 years.

Key Agreements Signed

As part of the celebration, three significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to further strengthen Indo-German collaboration:

1. Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) between the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), aimed at enhancing innovation and incubation ecosystems through an exchange programme.
2. MoU between Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), focusing on renewable energy, carbon capture, green hydrogen, and innovative technologies. BPCL will provide INR 10 crores annually to support joint research projects with German partners.
3. Extension of the PETRA-III Phase 2 programme for two more years, strengthening collaborations in photon science research.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to collaborating with Germany in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and green hydrogen fuel. He also pointed to India’s Deep Ocean Mission, emphasizing the potential for future Indo-German cooperation in ocean exploration.

Concluding his remarks, Dr. Singh expressed optimism about the future of the Indo-German partnership, stating, “We are entering a new era of science-driven global progress, and India-Germany cooperation is well-placed to be at the forefront of this transformation.”

The event witnessed the participation of prominent scientists, researchers, and dignitaries from both nations, further solidifying the foundation of an enduring partnership set to drive innovation and address global challenges in the years to come.