India and the United Kingdom have explored opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation in space, civil nuclear energy, scientific research and emerging technologies during talks between Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade Jonathan Reynolds.
The discussions covered space science, satellite development, research partnerships and greater collaboration between startups and technology companies. Highlighting India's space-sector reforms and the presence of around 800 space-technology startups, Dr. Jitendra Singh proposed stronger links between Indian and British startups to promote innovation, strengthen supply chains and create commercial opportunities.
In the civil nuclear energy sector, both sides explored cooperation in small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced nuclear technologies and related industrial capabilities. Dr. Singh also highlighted India's nuclear-sector reforms, including the SHANTI Act, 2025, and opportunities to expand collaboration in nuclear medicine, radioisotopes and cancer-related research.
The talks also covered artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, cyber-physical systems, cybersecurity, advanced sensors, gravimeters and geospatial applications. Dr. Singh emphasised the importance of developing AI solutions suited to local requirements and resources, while highlighting the need to address emerging technology risks and strengthen cybersecurity.
Reynolds welcomed closer engagement between the two countries through research and innovation partnerships, institutional exchanges and commercial cooperation. He also expressed interest in advancing peaceful civil nuclear collaboration and highlighted AI as a priority for the UK's forthcoming G20 Presidency.
The discussions aim to build on the complementary scientific and technological capabilities of India and the UK, strengthen industry and research linkages, and identify practical opportunities for collaboration across strategic technology sectors.