India Emerging as a Global Technology Leader, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh at IISF Panchkula
New national R&D fund will unlock high-risk, high-impact deep-tech innovation: Dr Jitendra Singh
The Impressive TimesPanchkula, December 7, 2025: India has moved decisively from a traditional economy to an innovation-driven powerhouse and is now influencing global technological trends, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said at the India International Science Festival (IISF). Speaking at a special Fireside Chat, he noted that India’s economic momentum is increasingly powered by research, technology, scientific thinking, and policy shifts that prioritize innovation.
Dr. Singh, who holds key responsibilities across the Science & Technology Ministry, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Departments of Atomic Energy and Space, said the country’s transformation over the past decade reflects both strong political support and a clear national vision for science-led development.
The Minister said India has consistently had talented scientists and innovators, but what has changed is the scale of opportunity and the nation’s readiness to lead global transitions. From biotechnology and regenerative sciences to advanced nuclear research and next-generation space technologies, he said India is now playing a defining role in shaping the future.
Dr. Singh highlighted the launch of a national R&D fund as one of the most significant reforms in India’s innovation landscape. The fund aims to support high-risk, high-impact research, especially in sectors previously inaccessible to private players — such as nuclear energy and space. The initiative, he said, will act as a catalytic force, helping Indian companies build long-term capabilities using low-interest, long-duration financial support and enabling them to scale confidently.
The Minister recalled a time when even journalists could not enter Sriharikota during rocket launches. Today, after reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the space sector has opened dramatically — growing from a handful of companies to nearly 400 space startups recognized globally.
He emphasized that India’s space achievements are no longer restricted to launch missions. Space-enabled solutions are now improving agriculture, healthcare, water management, and disaster response, setting global benchmarks.
A similar transformation, he said, is taking place in the nuclear sector. Advanced nuclear applications are now contributing to cancer care facilities, community water purification systems, and various technologies that directly enhance citizens’ quality of life.
Dr. Singh said the world’s perception of India has undergone a remarkable turnaround. Indian professionals now enjoy significantly higher credibility internationally, he noted, describing it as a “complete reversal” of the situation two decades ago.
Countries across continents are studying India’s models — from digital certificates for senior citizens to grievance redressal frameworks — reflecting India’s rise as a creator of globally applicable best practices.
The Minister said the shift in governance over the past decade has rebuilt trust between citizens and the state. Schemes like PM Awas Yojana and Ujjwala Yojana demonstrate inclusive governance where benefits reach people transparently, without discrimination. He credited this with shaping a more accountable and responsive administrative culture.
Dr. Singh said India’s rise is inseparable from the broadening of opportunity across the nation. Affordable digital access and connectivity have enabled young people from small towns and rural districts to compete at par with urban counterparts. He highlighted UPSC toppers from places like Poonch and regions near Punjab-Haryana to illustrate how aspiration from “Bharat” is reshaping national progress.
Responding to discussions on how to assess India’s innovation readiness, he said the true measure is sustainability — the ability of ideas to become viable businesses with strong market linkages. He cited profitable agri-startups such as lavender-based ventures as examples of meaningful, financially successful enterprises built on real-world needs.
Looking ahead, Dr. Singh said India’s greatest strength remains its multi-generational talent. He predicted that India could put an astronaut on the Moon within the next 15 to 20 years and said artificial intelligence will transform daily life if used responsibly.
His advice to the youth: take risks, partner with industry, and make full use of the support systems the government has created.
With IISF continuing in Panchkula, Dr. Singh said such forums are designed to inspire curiosity, encourage scientific questioning, and strengthen India’s global leadership in science. He concluded that India stands today in its strongest and most respected position in decades — and the future belongs to those who combine scientific imagination with national purpose.
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