Priority for scientific collaboration in fields like Health, Marine Sciences, and Applied Mathematics
In a significant development that further strengthens the alliance between India and France, the two nations have embarked on a collaborative journey in the field of science and technology
 
As part of this initiative, both sides have agreed to prioritize scientific collaboration in the thematic fields of Health, Decarbonized Hydrogen, Marine Sciences, and Applied Mathematics.
 
The collaboration was finalised at the 2nd Indo-French Joint Committee on Science and Technology (JCST) meeting, held in Faridabad on January 18, 2024, on the margins of the India International Science Festival.
 
According to an official statement, dedicated calls for projects in the chosen thematic areas will be announced soon. 

The JCST, co-chaired by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, India, and Dr. Claire Giry, Director General for Research and Innovation, French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, is at the vanguard of catalysing a revitalized scientific partnership between these two sovereign states.
 
Notably, an agreement has been reached between ANR and DST to set up calls for proposals funding priorities set by the JCST. CEFIPRA, which should also be reinforced, will complement the ANR-DST calls to further fund other priorities highlighted, the statement added.
 
Prof. Karandikar highlighted the success of the Indo-French Centre for Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA) and said that it could help step up research partnerships in new age technologies like ICPS, health, clean energy, AI, quantum technologies, and advanced materials. He also underscored the need for more collaboration between the innovators and entrepreneurs of the two countries.

“There is a need for stronger associations between researchers of the two countries focusing on sustainable technologies, applied mathematics, health and ocean research,” said Dr Claire Giry.
 
The meeting, hosted at the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), also highlighted the criticality of mobility and networking as catalysts for future scientific cooperation. Both parties concurred on the establishment of novel programs to enhance joint research endeavours and the mobility of scientists, with a particular emphasis on nurturing young researchers and women scientists through initiatives like CEFIPRA.

The scientific collaboration seamlessly aligns with the broader framework of the Indian and French strategic partnership, commemorated by Prime Minister Modi's visit to France on Bastille Day in July 2023, marking 25 years of collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-French roadmap “Horizon 2047”, signed on Bastille Day in Paris, underscores the commitment to bilateral scientific cooperation. 
 
Since its inception in 2018, the JCST has been instrumental in identifying thematic priorities, allocating resources, and enhancing tools to achieve mutual objectives in science and technology. The committee’s dedication to transdisciplinary approaches and enduring collaboration exemplifies the dynamic and diverse nature of the Indo-French academic and scientific partnership.

This joint venture places considerable emphasis on the existing Indo-France ties and stands as an icon of international scientific collaboration, heralding advancements in areas of paramount global importance.