In a historic move, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced 2025-26 as the India-Japan Year of Science, Technology, and Innovation Exchange, marking four decades of bilateral S&T collaboration. Speaking at National Science Day celebrations in Tokyo, Dr. Singh highlighted the significant progress in Indo-Japanese cooperation since 2014, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Since 2015, nearly 7,000 Indian students have participated in the Sakura Science Program, gaining exposure to advanced Japanese research. Strengthening ties in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Quantum Technology, and Space, the initiative aims to deepen scientific exchanges between the two nations.
Dr. Singh also announced the 11th Indo-Japan Joint S&T Committee meeting in June 2025, set to evaluate ongoing collaborations and explore new opportunities. The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) has already supported 300+ joint projects since 1993, fostering thousands of scientist exchanges.
To broaden student and researcher exchange programs, India plans to promote long-term stays, joint supervision, and internships in Japan. Special focus will be placed on women scientists, while Japanese students will also visit India for research exposure.
India’s rapid scientific advancements have positioned it as 3rd globally in research publications, PhDs, and start-ups, 9th in research publication quality, 3rd in unicorn start-ups, 39th in the Global Innovation Index, up from 80th in 2014.
India’s Chandrayaan-3’s historic Moon landing and record 104-satellite launch by ISRO in 2017 further showcase its leadership in cost-effective space technology.
India is pushing for multi-stakeholder collaboration across academia, research institutions, and industry, with Japan playing a key role in AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and vaccine development.
Additionally, India’s recent decision to open the nuclear sector to private entities will enable the development of Bharat Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), reshaping its energy landscape.
Dr. Singh’s vision for stronger India-Japan ties emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and global leadership in S&T. With shared goals and a commitment to progress, the next decade promises groundbreaking advancements, reinforcing both nations’ positions in global science and technology.
