India and Japan have signed agreements to enhance collaboration in health research and quantum technologies, strengthening their strategic partnership in science, technology, and innovation. The Ministry of Science & Technology announced the exchange of agreements during a high-level meeting between Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Japan’s Minister for Science and Technology Policy, Kimi Onoda, who is leading a high-level delegation visit to India.
Furthermore, a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) in the field of health and medical devices was exchanged between the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Additionally, a Letter of Intent (LoI) on cooperation in quantum science and technology was signed between the Cabinet Office of Japan and the Department of Science and Technology, paving the way for collaboration in next-generation technologies.
The government emphasized that this engagement builds upon the outcomes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan in August 2025, where both countries agreed to enhance cooperation under the India-Japan Science, Technology, and Innovation Partnership across various sectors, including industry and startups.
During the meeting, Minister Singh highlighted the natural synergy between India and Japan in science and technology, with Japan’s advanced technological capabilities complementing India’s skilled human resources. He pointed out that India’s national missions in quantum technologies, cyber-physical systems, electric mobility, clean energy, and advanced computing are creating new opportunities for joint research, co-development, and industrial partnerships.
Meanwhile, Japanese Minister Onoda praised India’s rapid economic growth and its increasing focus on innovation, especially the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence across sectors. Both sides discussed expanding joint research programs, capacity building, and structured funding mechanisms in the health sector to support collaborative projects.
