India’s Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that “Technology Parks” are being developed to facilitate deeptech startups.
Chairing a high-level review meeting with the Secretary and senior officials of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to assess ongoing projects and future initiatives, Singh said four existing technology innovation hubs will become technology translation research parks (TTRP) to facilitate deep-tech startups and industry-academia partnerships. These hubs, located at IIT Kanpur (cybersecurity), IISc Bangalore (robotics and autonomous navigation), IIT Indore (healthcare), and ISM Dhanbad (mining), will provide infrastructure and support for translational research.
The meeting focused on India’s progress in emerging technology domains, including hydrogen energy, quantum computing, and technology innovation hubs.
During the discussion, Singh was briefed on the National Green Hydrogen Mission, where DST is set to be the implementing agency.
Singh emphasized the need for coordination with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to expedite implementation and ensure effective policy alignment.
The Minister also reviewed advancements under the National Quantum Mission, where India has established four quantum technology hubs at IISc Bangalore, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, and IIT Madras. These hubs focus on computing, communication, sensing, metrology, materials, and devices.
Officials reported that the mission has so far supported eight quantum startups, two of which—QPi AI and QNU Labs—are developing advanced quantum computing and communication solutions. Singh highlighted the importance of industry collaboration to accelerate quantum research and its commercial applications.
The Minister also discussed India’s growing international collaborations in science and technology. He acknowledged recent engagements with global partners, including the US and European Union, to strengthen research cooperation. Officials highlighted that India is set to participate as an associate member in the EU’s Horizon research programme, pending financial and policy negotiations.
Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing technology-driven solutions and creating opportunities for Indian scientists, entrepreneurs, and researchers. The meeting concluded with a directive to fast-track the implementation of key projects and ensure sustained momentum in India’s scientific and technological growth.
Jim Cornall is editor of Deeptech Digest and publisher at Ayr Coastal Media. He is an award-winning writer, editor, photographer, broadcaster, designer and author. Contact Jim here.
