India and the UK are set to create the India-UK "Net Zero" Innovation Virtual Centre, according to an announcement made by Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space.
The joint initiative is aimed at promoting cooperation in the areas of Climate Change and Environmental Goals, with a focus on developing innovative solutions that support long-term Sustainable Growth.
Dr. Jitendra Singh and his British counterpart, UK Minister George Freeman, presided over the India-UK Science & Innovation Council meeting, where they called for enhanced science and technology cooperation between India and the UK.
The two leaders discussed the ambitious "Roadmap 2030," which aims to increase close cooperation between the two nations across health, climate, commerce, education, research and technology, and defense.
During the meeting, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the creation of the India-UK "Net Zero" Innovation Virtual Centre, which will provide a platform for stakeholders from both countries to work together in the focus areas of decarbonization of manufacturing processes, transport systems, and green hydrogen as a renewable source.
The joint initiative is expected to support research and innovation in both countries, with the long-term goal of achieving sustainable growth.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India's commitment to achieving its climate change and environmental targets on time, stating that India is quickly becoming an economic powerhouse under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
He also discussed India's efforts towards the development of mitigation and monitoring solutions for environmental pollution.
The India-UK Science and Technology (S&T) collaboration has been growing at a rapid pace, with the joint research program expanding from an almost zero base to close to US$ 373.48–497.97 million (£300–400 million) now.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between India and the UK will provide a mechanism to expand and maximize cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Both leaders called for new collaborations for joint research and development (R&D) projects between BBSRC-DBT in the area of farmed animal disease and health and MOES-NERC in the area of solid earth hazards.
India and the UK establishing a Net Zero Innovation Virtual center to tackle climate change will require future coordination and synergy by both countries. Looking at it Dr. Jitendra Singh also invited the UK minister, Mr. George Freeman, to the G20 Research Ministers meeting in Mumbai to be held on July 6, 2023.
The India-UK "Net Zero" Innovation Virtual Centre is expected to be a key initiative in tackling Climate Change and Promoting Sustainable Growth.
With India and the UK coming together to share their expertise and resources, the virtual center is poised to create a significant impact in the focus areas of decarbonization, transport systems, and renewable sources.
As India continues to work towards achieving its environmental goals, the establishment of the virtual center is a crucial step toward achieving long-term sustainable growth.
The creation of the India-UK "Net Zero" Innovation Virtual Centre is a positive step towards achieving global sustainability goals.
The collaboration between India and the UK in the field of science and technology is expected to pave the way for more joint initiatives in the future.