image credit- PIB
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026' at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, on 27 October.
During the event, the Prime Minister called for continuously preparing scientists and institutions through dedicated 'National Missions' for future-shaping sectors such as semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology, advanced materials, robotics, space, clean energy and next-generation communications to bring new and big discoveries from India.
He also emphasised that security should be given the highest priority in the field of AI, synthetic biology and autonomous systems.
On the other hand, addressing a session on Systems and Synthetic Biology at the event, Dr Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, stressed on the need to build domestic capabilities in emerging areas of biotechnology and translate India's scientific strengths into research opportunities and practical applications.
Dr Jitendra Singh also emphasised the importance of strengthening indigenous technological capabilities in gene synthesis. Dependence on foreign suppliers for specialized research needs can pose challenges for Indian scientists in terms of timing , availability, and continuity of research. Building domestic capabilities in this area will help researchers advance their work more efficiently and strengthen the country's biotechnology ecosystem.