India and Germany today explored a future-oriented partnership in quantum communication, photonics, quantum satellite communication, space technologies and deep-tech innovation when Mario Voigt, Minister-President of the Free State of Thuringia, Germany, currently on India visit, called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh.

The meeting brought together representatives from government, research institutions and industry from both sides to identify pathways for connecting innovation ecosystems and accelerating collaboration in frontier technologies.

The meeting was attended by Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Dr N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and Director General, CSIR, along with senior officials from the Department of Science & Technology, Department of Space, DRDO and other scientific institutions.

The German delegation was led by Mario Voigtand included Christiane Kilian, Member of the Executive Board, Foundation for Technology, Innovation and Research Thuringia, besides representatives from government, research organisations, industry and technology institutions.

Welcoming the delegation, Dr Jitendra Singh said India and Germany share a strong partnership rooted in science, technology, innovation and people-to-people ties.

Recalling the celebration of 50 years of India-Germany Science and Technology Cooperation in 2024, he said scientific collaboration has emerged as one of the strongest pillars of bilateral engagement and continues to create new opportunities in frontier areas of research, innovation and industrial development.

Recognising Thuringia's emergence as a major European hub for photonics, optics, quantum technologies and advanced manufacturing, both sides explored opportunities for long-term institutional partnerships in frontier technologies.

The discussions focused on leveraging the complementary strengths of India and Germany and promoting deeper engagement among governments, scientific institutions, startups and industry to accelerate the translation of research into globally competitive technologies, products and innovation-driven enterprises.

Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the major initiatives undertaken under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to strengthen India's research and innovation ecosystem.

Referring to the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and other measures aimed at promoting industry-linked research and innovation, he said India is increasingly creating platforms that connect academia, research institutions, startups and industry, enabling scientific knowledge to be translated into practical solutions and economic value.

Source:Ndtv