Perspective: India-US iCET Cooperation | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

iCET Meeting 

• India and the US held the 2nd review meeting of the India-U.S. Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in New Delhi.
• A joint fact sheet outlining the future of the U.S.-India strategic technology partnership was issued post the meeting.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

• Discussions revolved around progress in strategic cooperation across various tech sectors like space, AI, biotechnology, and clean energy.
• Focus was on enhancing collaboration and resolving trade and technology barriers.
• New cooperation areas like biofuel and biopharma were introduced with additional funding.

About iCET

• iCET, launched in Jan 2023, aims at fostering collaboration between India and the US in critical technologies.
• Initially focusing on six areas, it plans to expand cooperation globally.

Significance of iCET

• iCET strengthens ties between India and the US in defense and energy, countering challenges like China.
• It aims to provide advanced yet affordable technologies worldwide.
• Seen as a strategic alignment fostering technology advancements.

Challenges

• Challenges include tech cooperation complexities, export controls, IPR issues, supply chain reliability, funding gaps, infrastructure needs, and private sector involvement.

Way Forward

• Recommendations involve resolving bilateral issues, adapting technology protection measures, regulatory frameworks, IPR clarity, and boosting R&D investments.