Jitendra Singh Calls For Stronger StartUp-Industry Collaboration To Drive India's Economic Growth

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh addressed a round table of institutional leaders on the sidelines of the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2024. He stressed the importance of a robust startup-industry linkage for India’s long-term economic growth. The session was attended by heads of key research institutions, vice chancellors of universities, and industry leaders.

In his address, Singh highlighted that the future of India’s economic prosperity depends on integrating research, academia, and startups with industry. He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to harness the potential of India’s traditional knowledge, combined with modern technology, to achieve global distinction.

The Minister particularly called for greater private sector involvement in sustaining startups. He noted that industry leaders should not only participate but also partner in shaping the direction of scientific research and development. By aligning scientific research with market demands, Dr. Singh believes India can create a thriving innovation ecosystem that drives entrepreneurship and accelerates economic growth.

Singh also underscored the importance of empowering young innovators and startups. He recommended leveraging the resources and expertise of academic institutions and research organizations, along with initiatives like Startup India and Atal Innovation Mission, to create a supportive environment for innovation.

He further emphasized the integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and quantum computing into research and education, as essential tools to prepare the Indian workforce for the future. These technologies, he said, will be key to sustaining the nation’s leadership in the global economy.

Concluding his address, Singh urged the scientific community to channel the momentum and confidence generated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership into actionable strategies. He expressed his belief that science, driven by strong collaborations with startups and industry, will be the cornerstone of India’s future as a global leader in innovation.