Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday. The event brings together scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, startups and international experts to discuss India's scientific and technological future. The three-day conclave runs from October 27 to 29 and is aligned with the government's broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The conclave is organised by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under the guidance of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Its stated aim is to strengthen the country's research and innovation ecosystem and to promote collaboration between scientific institutions, universities, industries and entrepreneurs. It provides a platform for experts to exchange ideas, explore emerging technologies and identify research priorities.
ESTIC 2026 covers 12 thematic areas, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced materials, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, climate science and ocean sciences. Other areas include semiconductors, quantum technologies, robotics, space science and advanced technological applications. Discussions are expected to focus on turning research breakthroughs into practical solutions, with applications across healthcare, agriculture, industry, communications and environmental protection.
A central goal of the event is to strengthen links between laboratories and the market, so that promising research can develop into commercially viable products and services. Organisers say this is intended to help move scientific discoveries more quickly from the lab to real-world use.
A major feature of the conclave is a technology and innovation exhibition with about 150 deep-tech startup stalls. The exhibition showcases indigenous scientific achievements, emerging technologies and innovative solutions developed by India's research and startup communities. Technology demonstrations, thematic videos, documentaries and interactive experiences are also planned to show visitors how scientific discoveries can be applied to practical problems.
The participation of startups is significant, the organisers indicate, as emerging businesses increasingly contribute to innovation in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing and clean energy. The Global Connect Networking Event, expected to draw more than 300 invited participants from academic institutions, research organisations and industries in India and abroad, is intended to encourage international research partnerships and stronger industry-academia cooperation.
The conclave also brings together established scientific leaders and young researchers, creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing and discussion of future research priorities. Its outcomes will be watched closely as an indicator of how effectively collaboration between government, academia, industry and startups can support innovation in the coming years.
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