Jitendra Singh, German Leader Discuss Quantum, Deep-Tech Ties

• India and Germany discuss cooperation in quantum communication and photonics
• Thuringia proposes expanded researcher exchanges and dual-degree partnerships
• Talks focus on deep-tech innovation, startups and space technologies
• Jitendra Singh highlights India’s growing innovation and startup ecosystem

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd June: India and Germany on Tuesday explored new avenues of cooperation in quantum communication, photonics, space technologies and deep-tech innovation during talks between Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh and Mario Voigt, Minister-President of the German state of Thuringia.

The meeting brought together representatives from government, research institutions and industry from both countries to identify opportunities for connecting innovation ecosystems and strengthening collaboration in frontier technologies.

Welcoming the German delegation, Dr. Singh highlighted the strong foundation of India-Germany cooperation in science, technology and innovation and recalled the celebration of 50 years of bilateral science and technology cooperation in 2024. He said scientific collaboration has emerged as one of the key pillars of the strategic partnership between the two nations.

The discussions focused extensively on quantum technologies and photonics, with both sides identifying these sectors as critical for future technological competitiveness. Areas of interest included quantum communication, quantum satellite communication, optical ground stations, quantum networks and advanced photonics technologies.

The German delegation shared details of European initiatives in quantum communication infrastructure and optical communication systems, including developments under the EuroOGS network aimed at advancing optical ground station technologies.

Dr. Singh highlighted India’s progress under the National Quantum Mission, including advances in secure quantum communication and related technologies. Both sides discussed opportunities for collaboration in research, standards development, talent exchange and technology partnerships.

Recognising Thuringia as a leading European hub for photonics, optics, quantum technologies and advanced manufacturing, the two sides explored long-term institutional partnerships and stronger engagement among governments, scientific institutions, startups and industry.

The Union Minister also showcased India’s rapidly expanding innovation ecosystem, noting that the country now hosts the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and offers significant opportunities in biotechnology, healthcare, artificial intelligence, clean energy, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and space technologies.

He said initiatives such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), IndiaAI Mission, National Green Hydrogen Mission and National Quantum Mission are creating new opportunities for international collaboration and innovation-led growth.

The two sides also reviewed cooperation in the space sector, building on the long-standing partnership between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR). Discussions covered satellite communications, optical communications, human spaceflight, microgravity research, Earth observation and future exploration missions.

Dr. Singh noted that India has successfully launched 11 German satellites using Indian launch vehicles and reiterated the country’s commitment to expanding international cooperation in space research and commercial applications.

The meeting further emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration among governments, universities, research laboratories, startups and private industry to translate scientific research into globally competitive technologies and enterprises.

Both sides expressed confidence that enhanced cooperation in quantum technologies, photonics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and space science would further strengthen the India-Germany strategic partnership and contribute to innovation-led economic growth and technological advancement.