iCET fosters India-US collaboration in critical technologies, leveraging expertise for mutual benefit. Ongoing dialogues and support aim to overcome barriers, promoting innovation and growth.

During an India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) industry roundtable, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval discussed the necessity of maintaining technological leadership to safeguard their shared values and strategic interests. Alongside his American counterpart Jake Sullivan, Doval discussed several transformative initiatives to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, critical minerals, advanced telecommunications, and defense.

Sullivan outlined three aspects of tech partnerships–innovation, production, and deployment—and the need for government backing in fostering private-sector innovation. It is stated that bipartisan support for the Indian tech industry in the US is necessary for establishing the ecosystem and supply chain for production.

Both NSAs reiterated their commitment to addressing issues hindering deeper collaboration between India and the US. They pledged to conduct thorough due diligence to resolve barriers impeding closer ties. The iCET focuses on emerging technologies such as AI, semiconductors, biotech, and defense innovation. Both nations acknowledge the yet-to-be-realized potential for extended collaboration and are actively discussing methods to promote cooperation while tackling trade and technology obstacles.

The roundtable organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) brought together industry leaders from both nations to catalyze private-sector investment and foster partnerships across key technology sectors. Notable participants from the US included representatives from Thayer Mahan, General Atomics, Jeh Aerospace, and Holtec. Indian industry leaders represented 3rdiTech, BHEL, Bharat Forge, Bharti Airtel, Bhukhanvala Industries, Centum Electronics, L&T, Tata Advanced Systems, Tata Power, and Tejas Network.

They shared their perspectives on their past experiences of bilateral collaboration, expressed their vision for future collaboration, and identified areas where government facilitation could help overcome specific barriers. Chandrajit Banerjee, the director-general of CII, stated the ongoing efforts under iCET to enhance engagement between India and the US in sectors like AI, biotech, critical materials and minerals, and semiconductors.

The iCET initiative represents a promising endeavor by India and the US to fortify collaboration in critical and emerging technologies. It harnesses the expertise and resources of both nations, offering a potential for mutual benefit and strategic advantage. Through ongoing dialogues, industry engagements, and government support, the partnership is poised to overcome barriers and unlock new opportunities for innovation and economic growth, instilling a sense of optimism and hope.