US Secretary of Energy, Jennifer M. Granholm, held a significant meeting with India’s Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, at North Block today, where they discussed ways to enhance bilateral collaboration between their respective nations.
This meeting holds particular importance as it follows closely on the heels of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States. During the meeting, Jennifer M. Granholm was accompanied by a high-level American delegation, highlighting the strong commitment of both countries towards fostering strategic partnerships in the field of science and technology.
One of the key outcomes of this meeting was the joint launch of a call for proposals on “Critical and Emerging Technology: Quantum Technologies and Artificial Intelligence for Transforming Lives.” The program, designed by the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) and the Secretariat for USISTEF, aims to select and support innovative joint U.S.-India technology initiatives with a focus on applied research and development, viable business plans, proof of commercial concept, and significant potential for sustainable commercial success.
This initiative is open to submissions from various stakeholders, including startups, academic institutions, government bodies, and commercial enterprises from both countries.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that this collaborative grant program comes as a result of the shared vision articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Biden during their recent meetings. Both leaders stressed the need to strengthen the comprehensive and global strategic partnership between India and the United States, and this initiative is a tangible step towards achieving that goal.
Dr. Singh further highlighted that the technology partnership between the two nations is set to usher in a new era of cooperation, particularly in the domain of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Indian government has approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims to foster scientific and industrial research and development in Quantum Technology (QT).
Additionally, investments in AI and quantum technology are expected to have transformative impacts on various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, climate change, and more, thereby benefiting society at large.
The call for proposals will remain open until August 31, 2023, and it is expected to boost domestic priorities for both India and the United States, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The initiative promises to open up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation, strengthening the ties between the two nations and contributing to global technological advancement.
Both Jennifer M. Granholm and Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed optimism regarding the potential of this collaborative effort and affirmed their commitment to realizing the shared goals of technological advancement and mutual prosperity. As the deadline approaches, the two countries eagerly anticipate receiving groundbreaking proposals that will shape the future of AI and quantum technologies, while also addressing crucial societal challenges.