'Science must tackle real World challenges': Singh at IIT Gandhinagar

Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Thursday said scientific research must be evaluated not only by the number of publications it generates but also by its ability to address societal challenges and contribute to economic growth, as he inaugurated a new Central Instrumentation Facility and three research clusters at Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar.
Addressing the programme titled *“Advancing Research & Innovation Towards Viksit Bharat with the Inauguration of Major Research Initiatives,”* the minister underscored the importance of creating a robust ecosystem that enables research outcomes to move from laboratories to real-world applications through collaboration among academia, industry and government.

Addressed the faculty and students at #IIT #GandhiNagar, Ahmedabad.

Key Takeaways:
"Recent science policy initiatives of the Govt of India are aimed at democratising access to research funding and opportunity, for overall ease of research. The Anusandhan National Research… pic.twitter.com/72DkftF0qe

— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) June 11, 2026

The initiatives launched at the institute include a Department of Science and Technology-funded Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF) and three specialised research centres—the Advanced Materials Research Cluster (AMRC), Energy Research Cluster (ERC) and Healthcare & MedTech Research Cluster (HMRC). These facilities are expected to focus on developing technologies in areas critical to national priorities, including advanced materials, clean energy and affordable healthcare.Emphasising the growing role of industry in research and innovation, Singh said nearly 70 industries have joined the initiative as founding partners, reflecting increasing confidence in industry-academia collaboration. He noted that the newly established clusters are based on a translational research model that seeks to take scientific discoveries through validation, pilot development and eventual technology transfer.“Scientific excellence should ultimately translate into solutions that improve lives and strengthen the economy,” the minister said, highlighting the need for stronger linkages between research institutions and industry.
Referring to recent policy initiatives aimed at strengthening the research ecosystem, Singh said the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) is designed to expand access to research funding and opportunities beyond traditional centres of excellence, encouraging wider participation across institutions and disciplines.Describing the present period as a defining decade for science and technology in India, the minister pointed to flagship initiatives such as the National Quantum Mission and the IndiaAI Mission, which he said are opening new avenues for innovation and advanced research.
During the event, Singh also inaugurated the Central Instrumentation Facility and released a booklet detailing its capabilities. He said the shared infrastructure would provide researchers, startups and industries access to advanced scientific equipment, enabling cutting-edge research while supporting national priorities, including semiconductor development.The minister later visited the IIT Gandhinagar Research Park, established with support from the Department of Science and Technology. The facility currently hosts more than 20 companies and supports over 30 startups, creating opportunities for collaboration among researchers, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders.Highlighting the importance of industry participation at an early stage, Singh said partnerships should begin at the conceptual phase of research projects to accelerate technology transfer and ensure innovations are aligned with market and societal needs.
He also referred to the recently announced Rs1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) initiative, describing it as a major step towards boosting private-sector participation in research and innovation. He encouraged institutions and innovators to seek support from industry and philanthropic organisations to strengthen India's innovation ecosystem further.The minister interacted with representatives of NAMTECH during the visit and appreciated efforts to create future-ready talent through industry-integrated learning programmes aligned with emerging technology sectors.

Visited the Research Park at #IIT Gandhi Nagar #Ahmedabad. Accompanied by Director Dr Moona, Advisor Dr Akhilesh Gupta and others.

Appreciate the innovative efforts of young #StartUps and their attempts for meaningful Industry linkage.

Also walked through the work undertaken… pic.twitter.com/6ftTq4w1mT

— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) June 11, 2026

Singh also released a publication showcasing IIT Gandhinagar’s top 25 research achievements of 2025. Commending the institute’s interdisciplinary approach, he said its emphasis on sustainability, creative learning and problem-solving research reflects the direction required to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.Expressing confidence in the newly launched initiatives, the minister said research clusters, shared scientific infrastructure and industry-linked innovation platforms would help build stronger scientific capabilities and accelerate India's journey towards becoming a developed nation.“India’s transformation into a developed country will be driven by institutions where research, innovation and industry work together to create national capabilities and deliver solutions for society,” he said.

(State Correspondent)