US Secretary of Energy, Ms. Jennifer M. Granholm, paid a visit to Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr. Jitendra Singh at North Block. The meeting held significant importance as it closely followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States. Secretary Granholm was accompanied by a high-level American delegation. The discussions primarily focused on strengthening bilateral collaboration between the two countries.
Launch of Indo-US Joint Program on Quantum Technologies and Artificial Intelligence
During the meeting, officials from India and the United States collaboratively inaugurated a request for proposals focused on Critical and Emerging Technology, specifically Quantum Technologies and Artificial Intelligence, aimed at transforming lives. This program, designed by the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum (IUSSTF) and the Secretariat for USISTEF (United States-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund), aims to foster collaborative innovation and entrepreneurship in these cutting-edge technologies.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the competitive grant program offered by USISTEF selects and supports joint U.S.-India technology innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives that demonstrate commercial viability and social relevance. The program welcomes participation from a range of entities, including startups, government institutions, academic organizations, and commercial ventures. To be eligible, the proposals should focus on applied research and development, incorporate a business plan with proof of commercial concept, and exhibit significant potential for sustainable commercialization.
Enhancing bilateral comprehensive and global strategic partnership, as emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent US visit, forms the backdrop for this collaborative effort. Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed his satisfaction with the swift response from both Indian and U.S. counterparts to implement the decisions made by the leaders.
Underlining the significance of technology-oriented matters, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the $2 million grant program launched by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi under the U.S.-India Science and Technology Endowment Fund (USISTEF). This initiative aims to facilitate the joint development and commercialization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies. The leaders also encouraged public-private collaborations to develop high-performance computing facilities in India.
Furthermore, Dr. Jitendra Singh informed us about India’s recent approval of the National Quantum Mission (NQM), an endeavor to nurture and expand scientific and industrial research and development in Quantum Technology (QT). Additionally, he emphasized the potential of AI to address global challenges while presenting opportunities for economic growth and development.
The meeting between Secretary Granholm and Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the commitment of both countries to enhance cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. Through joint initiatives and collaborative efforts, India and the United States aim to leverage the power of emerging technologies for the betterment of society and create a robust ecosystem for future advancements in Quantum Technologies and Artificial Intelligence.
By fostering such collaborations, the two nations are paving the way for groundbreaking research, entrepreneurial endeavors, and sustainable commercialization, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of both economies and fostering a stronger partnership between India and the United States.
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