India Launches Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative 2026 to Bridge Science and Global Policy

India has launched the Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (RSDI) 2026, a new institutional effort to strengthen the connection between science, technology, and diplomacy. The initiative is being jointly launched by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF). The announcement was made by Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood and ORF President Dr. Samir Saran at the PSA office. The initiative will operate alongside the Raisina Dialogue from March 5-7, 2026 in New Delhi.

Why This Initiative Matters?

The RSDI 2026 reflects the growing strategic importance of science and technology in international relations. Key reasons for this initiative:

• Strategic Autonomy – Science and technology increasingly shape global policy decisions
• Emerging Powers – Addresses India’s role in a multipolar world
• Technology Governance – Manages disruptive and emerging technologies
• Global Standards – Ensures equitable participation in international regulatory processes
• Security Focus – Addresses research security and technology control

Main Objectives and Focus Areas

The initiative aims to create a dedicated platform within the Raisina Dialogue to discuss science and technology diplomacy. Key focus areas include:

Critical Dimensions:

• Governance of disruptive and emerging technologies
• Research security and intellectual property protection
• Technology control regimes and standards
• Equitable participation in global standards-setting
• Scientific collaboration amid strategic competition

Strategic Engagement and Global Participation

The initiative will engage:

• Emerging Scientific Leaders – Young innovators and researchers
• Deep-Tech Innovators – Technology entrepreneurs and startups
• International Counterparts – Global scientists and researchers
• Policymakers – Government officials and diplomats
• Industry Leaders – Technology and innovation sectors

Events Planned:

• Leadership-level plenary sessions
• Expert roundtable discussions
• Focused thematic sessions
• Interactive scientific deliberations

Institutional Partnership

Joint Launch by:

• Office of Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA)
• Observer Research Foundation (ORF)

Significance:

• Embeds science diplomacy in India’s flagship geopolitical dialogue
• Strengthens India-Global South perspective on science policy
• Bridges scientific cooperation with foreign policy objectives
• Addresses multipolar world realities