New Delhi, Feb 21: A high-level Canadian delegation led by Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan province, on Wednesday called on Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh and discussed bilateral collaboration as well as joint ventures in areas like Electric Vehicles, Cyber Physical System, Quantum Technologies, Future Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen Fuel, Deep Ocean Mining etc.
Welcoming the Canadian delegation, Dr Jitendra said 23 lakh Indian diaspora are reinforcing Indo-Canadian relations and contributing to the development of both nations. “India has among the largest diaspora in Canada at 2.3 million and their presence in Canadian Parliament and even the cabinet is a testimony of our longstanding relation. The Diaspora which contributes positively to both countries would act as a bridge between the two nations, as Canada is one of the most favoured destinations for Indian students for higher education.”
The minister informed the delegation that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India established the ‘Anusandhan’ National Research Foundation, prioritizing research in areas of technology and science to foster and revitalize the innovation ecosystem with around 60-70% participation of the private sector. “The government is keen on opening arms to welcome non-governmental organizations to contribute to technology development and support them,” he said.
Dr Singh said India is keen to develop research collaborations with Canadian R&D institutions and technology collaborations with Canadian industries.
The Minister of Science and Technology categorically mentioned the ‘Global Biofuels Alliance’ (GBA), an initiative by India as the G20 Chair last year, bringing together the biggest consumers and producers of biofuels to drive the development and deployment of biofuels. The initiative aims to position biofuels as a key to energy transition and contribute to jobs and economic growth.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the National Hydrogen Mission (NHM) has been launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi while commemorating India’s 75 years of Independence to cut down carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable sources of energy. It is a futuristic vision that can help India not only cut down its carbon emissions but also diversify its energy basket and reduce external reliance, he added.
Referring to the success of the VAIBHAV fellowship programme, the Minister also mentioned PM Modi’s invitation to India’s diaspora to do research in India’s premier institutions and contribute to its progress.
Mr. Scott Moe said that Canada and India relations have made great strides in recent years and have become truly multidimensional, spurred by a significant convergence of interests, mutual goodwill and exchanges.
He said Science and Technology cooperation is one of the strategic pillars of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. Academia, Research Institutions and Industries of both countries have strong bonds and are playing the role of catalyst in our strategic research and development partnerships.
“The relationship has grown between India and Saskatchewan, especially after opening their office in Delhi and strengthens their resolve to work with India and achieve collective growth,” Moe added.
