Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the “Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conference 2026.”

The prestigious National Science and Technology Centre in New Delhi officially opened the “Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conference 2026” today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opening the event, said that it is essential to accelerate scientific research and technology development to play a leading role in the global innovation landscape. He encouraged young people to develop curiosity about research and an entrepreneurial spirit.

The main theme of the conference is “Sustainable Development and Digital Transformation,” under which leading scientists, researchers, and industrialists from around the world will gather. The program this year saw participation from representatives of more than 120 countries, many of whom presented plans to collaborate with India’s startup ecosystem and research institutions. The Prime Minister specifically highlighted progress in India’s new energy, biotechnology, and AI sectors and underscored that the government is implementing new policies to increase investment in these areas.

During the inauguration, the Prime Minister announced the “Innovation Scouting Programme” under a new initiative, aimed at gaining international recognition for young scientists and entrepreneurs and providing them with funding and mentorship opportunities. He also pledged to promote the “Small and Medium Enterprises for Intellectual Property” (SME‑IP) initiative, which will assist Indian startups with patenting and licensing. During the conference, several panel discussions, workshops, and demo days are planned to showcase new technologies and research findings.

The Prime Minister’s opening address clarified that India’s science and technology sector can play a crucial role not only for domestic development but also in addressing global challenges. Through this conference, India is committed to further strengthening its innovation capabilities on the international stage.