New Delhi, September 6 (Daily Kiran) : Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State for Science and Technology, stressed the need for a fundamental shift in collaboration between industry and research institutions during the sixth RISE Conclave held at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology in Kolkata. He emphasized that potential business partners should be involved in research projects from the very beginning.
While engaging with CEOs, CSOs, and COOs from various industries, Dr. Singh stated, “The commercial wing should work alongside the lab from day one.” He explained that involving industry during the project-planning phase ensures that market demands, user needs, and commercial aspects are integrated while the technology is being developed. This approach can prevent situations where a technology reaches the market but requires significant changes to meet actual industry or consumer needs.
Responding to industry suggestions for early involvement of commercial partners, Dr. Singh noted that such participation would provide critical insights into market conditions, product design, environmental sustainability, supply chain requirements, and commercial viability. This collaboration could bridge the gap between laboratory research and market-ready products.
The discussions also allowed industry representatives to present their specific technical challenges and needs to the minister. Key topics included essential minerals and indigenous technology, with participants highlighting opportunities in rare-earth extraction, permanent magnets, recycling, lithium beneficiation, and the recovery of strategic minerals like vanadium and titanium.
Industry representatives called for technical support and guidance from CSIR laboratories to scale up technology in these areas. The conversation also touched on the potential for exploring rare-earth resources and other critical minerals in Eastern India.
Dr. Singh urged for maximizing the capabilities being developed at CSIR laboratories and other governmental scientific institutions. He encouraged industries to collaborate with laboratories to identify specific needs and develop practical technological solutions.
Additionally, discussions included space technology and specialized optical components. The minister requested information on issues raised by the industry, indicating that matters related to space technology could be addressed with the Department of Space.
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