India and France are preparing to deepen their strategic partnership in science, technology and space, with both countries identifying artificial intelligence, human spaceflight and advanced research as key areas for future collaboration. Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh held a bilateral meeting via video conference with French Minister Professor Philippe Baptiste to review the progress of ongoing India-France cooperation and discuss new opportunities across emerging technologies.
The discussions reflected the growing importance of science and space cooperation within the broader India-France strategic relationship. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the steady expansion of joint initiatives in high-technology sectors and research partnerships.
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2026 Indo-French Year of Innovation to Shape Future Collaboration
During the meeting, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the declaration of 2026 as the Indo-French Year of Innovation would provide a major platform to expand bilateral engagement in next-generation technologies and scientific research.
He highlighted the strengthening partnership between India’s Department of Science and Technology and leading French research organisations. The collaboration now includes new initiatives in advanced materials, digital sciences, applied mathematics and artificial intelligence. The minister also pointed to the recently launched joint India-France call on Applied Mathematics and AI as an important step toward building deeper research ties in emerging domains.
India-France Space Cooperation Expands Beyond Satellite Missions
Space cooperation remained a central theme during the bilateral talks. Dr. Jitendra Singh referred to the long-standing partnership between the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales, which has delivered several joint satellite missions over the years.
He mentioned collaborative projects such as the Megha-Tropiques Mission and the SARAL Mission, while also noting the ongoing work on the TRISHNA Mission Earth observation mission. The minister further highlighted cooperation on NavIC ground station development in France and acknowledged French support for India’s Gaganyaan Mission programme.
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France Proposes Greater Cooperation in Human Spaceflight
Professor Philippe Baptiste described India as a trusted and important partner in space and scientific cooperation. Recalling his earlier engagements with ISRO, he expressed interest in strengthening collaboration in Earth observation, launch systems and future space exploration programmes.
The French minister proposed enhanced cooperation in human spaceflight, including astronaut training, microgravity experiments and long-term collaborative missions. He also suggested deeper engagement in ocean-related data sharing through the ‘Space for Ocean Alliance’ initiative. Responding to the proposals, Dr. Jitendra Singh welcomed the ideas and reiterated India’s willingness to expand cooperation in ocean research and human spaceflight technologies.
He also highlighted India’s Deep Ocean Mission and the country’s vast coastline as strong foundations for future marine and climate research partnerships.
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India’s Growing Space Economy Opens New Opportunities
Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that India’s space sector has witnessed rapid growth following recent policy reforms. He said the country now has nearly 400 space startups, creating fresh opportunities for industry-led collaboration between Indian and French companies.
Both sides also recognised the contribution of the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research in supporting long-term scientific cooperation and institutional partnerships. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further strengthen India-France ties in science, technology and space through innovation, research collaboration and increased industry participation.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future. She has also conducted high-profile interviews and podcasts with industry leaders, bringing sharp analysis and accessible storytelling to a wide audience.
