New Delhi/Tokyo, April 6 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, delivered a virtual address during the grand finale of the India-Japan Year of Science, Technology, and Innovation Exchange at the Embassy of India in Tokyo. This event marked a significant milestone in the 40-year history of robust bilateral cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Singh stated, “Namaste! A very good afternoon to everyone. I am truly delighted to speak to you today at the culmination of the India-Japan year of science and technology celebrations held at the Embassy of India in Tokyo, Japan.”

He emphasized the resilience of the bilateral relationship, stating, “I am pleased to note that the Indo-Japan science and technology cooperation stands as one of the key pillars of our global Science & Technology partnerships.”

Reflecting on the importance of the event, Singh remarked, “It is a pleasure to address you all virtually at the Grand Finale of the India-Japan Year of Science, Technology, and Innovation Exchange, which celebrates 40 years of collaboration in science and technology between our two nations.”

Singh highlighted India’s advancing role in innovation, saying, “India is significantly contributing to research and development across all science and technology sectors, involving various stakeholders from academia, research institutions, and entrepreneurs, while ensuring equal participation opportunities for women and young scientists.”

The minister also pointed out notable achievements in recent years: “The 11th meeting of the Indo-Japan Joint Science & Technology Committee took place in New Delhi on June 5, 2025, leading to several new initiatives.”

“On August 31 of the previous year, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, a Joint Statement of Intent was signed to enhance cooperation in science, technology, and innovation,” he added.

Singh announced the signing of a new memorandum of cooperation between the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development and the Indian Council of Medical Research. “The Indian Beamline established at Tsukuba, Japan, is making significant contributions to advanced research. The unveiling of the bust of Bharat Ratna Sir C.V. Raman at Shimane University in 2025 was also a memorable event,” he stated.

“The Japan Science & Technology Agency is launching the Lotus program to invite and support 1000 researchers from India annually. Additionally, we have established an implementation arrangement between ISRO and JAXA of Japan for a collaborative lunar mission under the LUPEX project,” he shared.

Looking forward, Singh emphasized the mutual vision between both nations: “We regard Japan as a reliable partner where Japan's technology and India’s talent can synergize effectively. We anticipate the establishment of a joint center by Japan and India to accelerate innovation in Science & Technology and address pressing challenges, including global issues like the sustainable development goals.”

In his concluding remarks, Singh praised the Embassy of India in Japan for organizing the event.

Earlier in March 2025, he had addressed the celebrations for India’s National Science Day at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, where he underscored four decades of successful India-Japan collaboration in science and technology.

He designated 2025–26 as the India-Japan Year of Science, Technology, and Innovation Exchange, highlighting the progress made since 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Singh also noted that since 2015, approximately 7,000 Indian students have been selected for the Sakura Science Program, providing them the opportunity to visit Japan and gain insights into advanced research.

The ongoing collaboration is expected to expand into emerging domains such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Quantum Technology, and Space, ushering in a new era of bilateral scientific cooperation.