The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government partnered with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to enhance the research and development ecosystem in India. This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aims to boost research, its translation, and commercialization, while fostering strategic partnerships and supporting policy dialogue. The collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between industry, academia, and research institutions for impactful results.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government, stressed the importance of technology diffusion in generating innovative ideas, products, and processes across various sectors. The focus lies on advancing high-tech areas like solar energy and green batteries, leveraging the government’s RDI fund to support industries and startups in deep tech R&D. The MoU between the PSA’s office and FICCI is designed to facilitate structured engagement, promoting industry-academia linkages and connecting stakeholders nationwide within India’s R&D landscape.
FICCI Vice President and Dalmia Bharat Group Managing Director Puneet Dalmia highlighted the transformative potential of the MoU, emphasizing a shift towards practical applications, integrated systems, and transformational innovations across sectors. Dr. Parvinder Maini, the Scientific Secretary at the Office of PSA, commended the government’s consistent efforts in nurturing a sustainable R&D ecosystem through initiatives like the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and the Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Fund. The collaboration aims to enhance industry participation, particularly from MSMEs, to boost the contribution of industries to R&D, ultimately impacting the Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD).
Shaurya Doval, Director of Sangam Foundation, emphasized the importance of international collaboration in R&D to enhance the scalability and resilience of indigenous products and services, especially in reducing energy dependency. The event also highlighted the commitment of industrial R&D across various sectors, including energy solutions, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural biotechnology.
