The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser held an ‘Industry-Connect’ meeting under the Chairmanship of Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, yesterday at Vigyan Bhawan Annexe, New Delhi, to expand the collaboration between Science & Technology (S&T) Clusters and the Industry, with the purpose of bridging the gap of 'Lab to Market.'

The meeting brought together representatives from S&T clusters and various industry associations like FICCI, ASSOCHAM, AIPMA, Indian Chemical Council, Crop Care Federation of India, CropLife India, AIMED, CII, IPA, IDMA, CPMA to showcase the clusters' work, discuss industry needs for technology advancements and process improvements, and explore industry requirements for product development and the role of S&T Clusters in meeting these needs.

City Knowledge S&T Cluster Program is a flagship initiative of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. This initiative aims to tackle local challenges through S&T interventions by bringing together academia, R&D institutions, industries, startups, and local governments. Currently, there are seven S&T Clusters established in – Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jodhpur, Northern Region, and Pune.

Prof. Sood highlighted that the S&T Clusters have the potential to achieve global competitiveness. He further added that this endeavour involves creating stronger linkages between S&T Clusters and existing Industrial Clusters. The goal is to identify new avenues for collaboration, drive technological advancements, and support sustainable development, contributing to the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’

Dr. Parvinder Maini, Scientific Secretary, office of PSA stated that the dynamic interplay between industry and science drives innovation, enhances the practical application of research, and ensures that our scientific endeavours are aligned with market needs. She said that the meeting is sought to establish a robust connection between S&T clusters and industry bodies. The industry associations were requested to spread awareness among their member industries about the clusters for effective collaborations in future.

Dr. Vishal Choudhary, Scientist, office of PSA during his presentation, introduced the cluster concept and elaborated on the various themes on which the clusters are working.

Following this there were intense discussion among S&T Clusters and industry associations. This is expected to open new avenues mutually in future. The industry associations showed keen interest in the work done by S&T Clusters and further suggested the S&T clusters may explore new areas of verticals in line with the existing industrial clusters requirements which will benefit the industry at large.