The Union Minister of Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, recently led a high-level meeting with Secretaries and senior officials from the Science Ministries and central departments. The primary focus of this gathering was to encourage effective collaboration among scientific organisations to enhance the delivery of national priorities.

The campaign ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ is set to take place from September 10 to 19, 2026, with preparations already underway. Singh underscored the importance of synergising efforts among scientific institutions to integrate technological advancement, public involvement, and coordination among departments for the greatest national benefit.

During the meeting, the Minister reviewed Action Taken Reports based on decisions made in previous coordination discussions, reiterating that scientific departments should function as an interconnected ecosystem. He highlighted that consistent communication among Ministries, the sharing of knowledge, and collaborative initiatives would expedite innovation and ensure that scientific outcomes directly benefit the populace.

Focus on Outreach and Public Engagement

A significant aspect of the meeting was the strategy for public outreach regarding the upcoming ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign. The initiative aims to weave together environmental protection, public awareness, and community involvement, bringing together a vast array of stakeholders such as scientific institutions, government agencies, volunteers, educational entities, and local communities.

The meeting also evaluated the communication strategies employed by various Science Ministries to ensure that the successes of the last twelve years, especially in the current government’s last two years, reach a wider audience. Departments announced plans to enhance digital outreach through various formats, including videos, documentaries, infographics, and public engagement activities, to spotlight India’s advancing scientific capabilities.

The Department of Science and Technology revealed its outreach plan for significant initiatives such as the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, National Quantum Mission, and other prominent national programmes. A phased dissemination strategy aims to maintain public interest and heighten awareness of the country’s scientific accomplishments.

Collaboration Among Scientific Departments

The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research indicated that it is compiling a comprehensive publication detailing its major achievements over the past twelve years, set to be unveiled during CSIR Foundation Day later this year. The strategy also includes regular updates of success stories via digital platforms, along with ongoing lecture series designed to bolster interaction among scientific institutions.

The Department of Biotechnology reported the initiation of thematic publications highlighting its contributions to public health, bioeconomy, and agriculture, among others. Additionally, the #DBT Quest public engagement campaign has been launched to promote scientific awareness through interactive activities and coordinated social media outreach.

Discussions also encompassed initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration across Science Departments. Their progress on programmes involving organisations such as CSIR, ISRO, and BARC was reviewed, focusing on joint technology development, biomedical research, and regional programmes, particularly in the North Eastern Region.

Future National Scientific Events

The meeting also examined preparations for upcoming scientific events, including ESTIC-2026 and the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2026, among others. Departments provided updates on their readiness, outreach strategies, and collaborative activities, ensuring extensive participation from researchers, the industry, start-ups, students, and the public.

Singh mentioned that India’s scientific ecosystem is entering a promising phase wherein research excellence, innovation, collaboration, and public engagement must progress in tandem. His remarks point to the government’s commitment to making scientific advancements more accessible and impactful, aligning them closely with national development priorities.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed administrative performance and institutional coordination, urging departments to share best practices and enhance collaborative governance within the scientific community. The gathering, which took place at the CSIR-Science Centre in New Delhi, included key figures from various scientific departments and organisations.

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