PM Modi to Inaugurate Science and Technology Conclave
New Delhi, October 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Tuesday evening. The three-day event, being held from October 27 to 29, aims to bring together leading scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry representatives, startups and international experts to discuss India’s scientific priorities and emerging technologies.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the conclave at 5:30 PM and address the gathering. The event is designed to strengthen collaboration between research institutions, universities, government departments and private industry, with a focus on translating scientific discoveries into practical applications.
Twelve Key Areas of Discussion
The conclave will cover 12 thematic areas, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced materials, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, climate science and ocean sciences. Discussions will examine research priorities, technological capabilities and opportunities to develop solutions for national and global challenges.
The programme is expected to provide a platform for experts to exchange ideas on improving India’s research ecosystem and supporting the development of indigenous technologies. The initiative also seeks to encourage stronger connections between scientific research and commercial applications.
Deep-Tech Startups in Focus
A major attraction of ESTIC 2026 will be a technology and innovation exhibition featuring approximately 150 deep-tech startup stalls. The exhibition will showcase emerging technologies, indigenous scientific achievements and innovations with potential applications across multiple sectors.
Visitors will also have opportunities to explore technology demonstrations, documentaries, informational kiosks and augmented and virtual reality experiences. These activities are intended to make complex scientific developments more accessible and demonstrate how new technologies can be applied in everyday life and industry.
International Research Collaboration
The conclave will introduce a Global Connect Networking Event, bringing together more than 300 invited participants from academic institutions, research organisations and industry in India and abroad.
The initiative is intended to encourage international research partnerships, stronger industry-academia collaboration and pathways for moving innovations from laboratories to markets.
The event will also provide opportunities for young researchers, entrepreneurs and established scientific institutions to exchange knowledge and explore potential partnerships.
Focus on India’s Innovation Ecosystem
ESTIC 2026 is being organised under the guidance of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research playing a key organisational role.
The conclave forms part of wider efforts to strengthen India’s science and technology ecosystem and contribute to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The discussions and collaborations emerging from the three-day event are expected to inform future research priorities and innovation initiatives, with particular attention to building domestic technological capabilities and improving the practical impact of scientific research.
