India launched its first Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (SDI), to be held in 2026, through a collaboration between the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (OPSA) and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF). The initiative will be embedded within the Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship forum on geopolitics and geo-economics.
Why in News?
- First institutionalised science diplomacy platform under the Raisina Dialogue framework
- Reflects the growing strategic importance of science & technology in global diplomacy
- Positions India as a bridge between Global South and Global North in science governance
About Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (SDI)
Objective
The initiative aims to:
- Facilitate high-level deliberations among:
- Scientists
- Diplomats
- Policymakers
- Industry & deep-tech leaders
- Generate actionable insights at the intersection of:
- Science
- Technology
- Diplomacy
- Strengthen science diplomacy frameworks in a rapidly changing global order
Key Features
- Leadership-level plenary sessions with senior global stakeholders
- Focused expert roundtables on:
- Emerging science & technology challenges
- Strategic and ethical dimensions of science diplomacy
- Contemporary global governance issues
- Dedicated engagement with:
- Emerging scientific leaders
- Deep-tech innovators
Thematic Focus Areas
The SDI will focus on critical dimensions of Science & Technology Diplomacy, including:
- Governance of disruptive and emerging technologies
- Research security and technology control regimes
- Equitable participation in global standards-setting and regulatory processes
- Managing scientific collaboration amid strategic competition
- Strengthening partnerships aligned with national and developmental priorities
Global South Perspective
- Provides India and Global South–centric insights into global science diplomacy
- Enriches international policy discourse with development-oriented viewpoints
- Supports inclusive global governance in science and technology
Timeline & Venue
- Dates: 5–7 March 2026
- Location: New Delhi
- Held alongside: Raisina Dialogue 2026