Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh recently underscored the need to accelerate technology transfer to deepen India’s industrial engagement and strengthen the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.

Reviewing the scientific achievements of Chennai- and Hyderabad-based laboratories of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) at a meeting in Tirupati, the Minister said faster translation of laboratory research into commercial and societal applications is essential to leverage the sustained government push to build a robust scientific and innovation ecosystem.

The review covered the work of CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute, CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute, CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, and CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology. Directors of the laboratories presented progress aligned with national priorities and outlined future pathways for research, innovation and industry collaboration.

Key highlights included advances in sodium-ion batteries, green hydrogen and CO? capture; geophysical research supporting geothermal energy, critical minerals and Himalayan geo-hazard studies; indigenous footwear sizing systems and defence-grade gloves; offshore renewable energy infrastructure and disaster-resilient construction technologies; genomics and diagnostics for human, animal and plant health; and pharmaceutical and chemical innovations with strong translational focus.

Appreciating the collective efforts, Dr Singh emphasised need-based research, stronger industry partnerships and due recognition for CSIR technologies commercialised by industry. He reiterated CSIR’s pivotal role in strengthening India’s scientific capabilities and supporting long-term industrial and national development goals.