PM Modi's Leadership Drives India's Leap in Advanced Materials Research: Dr. Jitendra Singh

Dr. Singh stressed the importance of integrating computational modeling, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence into advanced materials research.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh delivered a keynote address virtually at the "International Conferences & Exhibitions on Materials Engineering and Technology," held in Mumbai from 4th to 6th September 2024. The event, organized by ASM International's India Chapter, brought together over 300 participants from around the world to showcase cutting-edge technologies, products, and services in the field of materials science.

In his address, Dr. Singh, who serves as the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, as well as MoS for various departments, highlighted the pivotal role advanced materials play in emerging technologies. He emphasized that these materials offer diverse solutions and opportunities due to their unique attributes and customization potential, significantly impacting key sectors such as energy, healthcare, space, agriculture, and defense.

Dr. Singh stressed the importance of integrating computational modeling, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence into advanced materials research. He noted that these technologies would accelerate the discovery of tailor-made materials with novel properties, driving technological advancements across various industries.

Commending the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Dr. Singh pointed to the growing demand for high-performance materials in India, fueled by increased R&D efforts and global commercialization. He highlighted the critical role of these materials in sectors such as renewable energy, automotive, aerospace, and healthcare, especially in meeting the rising demand for clean energy solutions.

Dr. Singh also outlined the Department of Science and Technology's initiatives on Advanced Materials, which focus on developing new materials and technologies to address global challenges like climate change, environmental degradation, and unsustainable practices in various sectors.

A key highlight of Dr. Singh's speech was the mention of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), established under the support of Prime Minister Modi. The NRF aims to revolutionize India's R&D ecosystem by funding and coordinating research across institutions, fostering innovation, and transforming universities and colleges into research hubs.

In a significant announcement, Dr. Singh recalled the Union Finance Minister's recent budget initiative, which earmarks Rs. 1 lakh crore to encourage private sector involvement in deep tech and sunrise domains. This funding, provided as a 50-year interest-free loan, aims to scale up research and innovation on a commercial scale.

Dr. Singh concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to strengthening the R&D ecosystem in India, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat as envisioned by Prime Minister Modi.