Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Mario Voigt, Minister-President of Germany’s Free State of Thuringia, on June 2 met Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science &Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh, with both sides exploring cooperation in photonics, space technologies and deep-tech innovation.
Recognising Thuringia’s emergence as a major European hub for photonics, optics, quantum technologies and advanced manufacturing, both sides explored opportunities for long-term institutional partnerships in frontier technologies, an official statement said.
The discussions focused on leveraging the complementary strengths of India and Germany and promoting deeper engagement among governments, scientific institutions, startups and industry to accelerate the translation of research into globally competitive technologies, products and innovation-driven enterprises.
Discussions centred on cooperation in quantum technologies and photonics, including quantum communication, quantum satellite communication, optical ground stations and quantum networks.
Officials examined European initiatives such as the EuroOGS network to advance standardisation and interoperability in optical ground station technologies.
Discussions also covered possibilities for scientific engagement, exchange of expertise and future collaboration involving research institutions, technology organisations and innovation ecosystems from both sides.
The meeting brought together representatives from government, research institutions and industry from both sides to identify pathways for connecting innovation ecosystems and accelerating collaboration in frontier technologies.
The discussions reflected the growing strategic importance to quantum technologies and the increasing need for international collaboration in the field.
Jitendra shared the progress achieved under India’s National Quantum Mission, including advances in secure quantum communication and related technologies.
The minister also highlighted India’s expanding portfolio of mission-mode programmes in frontier technologies, including the National Quantum Mission, IndiaAI Mission, National Green Hydrogen Mission and biotechnology initiatives.
