Srinagar, Jan 10 (KINS): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh hosted an informal New Year luncheon for journalists and media professionals at his residence in the national capital.
The gathering, part of a long-standing tradition spanning over a decade, marked the Minister’s first such interaction with the media in the New Year. It provided a relaxed platform for candid discussions on contemporary issues related to science, technology, governance reforms and India’s development trajectory.
Interacting freely with journalists from print and electronic media, Dr Jitendra Singh shared insights into key policy and legislative developments, including the SHANTI Act, the emerging role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India’s clean energy transition, and progress on nuclear power projects across the country. He reiterated that nuclear energy remains central to India’s energy security and climate commitments.
Highlighting the government’s reform-driven approach, the Minister said governance reforms are increasingly technology-led, with digital platforms such as CPGRAMS enhancing transparency, accountability and citizen-centric service delivery. He noted that India’s digital governance models are drawing global attention, reflected in the growing number of international students studying Indian administrative innovations.
Dr Jitendra Singh also spoke about citizen-focused initiatives like the Digital Life Certificate campaign, which has simplified processes for pensioners, and other digital reforms aimed at improving ease of living and ease of working.
On the innovation front, he described the recently announced ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) funding initiative as a game-changer for strengthening India’s R&D ecosystem, encouraging private sector participation and accelerating innovation outcomes.
Discussing space sector advancements, the Minister highlighted the expanding use of space technologies in communication, weather forecasting, disaster management, agriculture and navigation. He also shared updates on forthcoming lunar missions, including Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5.
He further referred to science-led socio-economic programmes such as the Lavender Revolution, noting their role in generating livelihoods, particularly in rural and hilly regions.
Emphasising the importance of sustained engagement with the media, Dr Jitendra Singh described journalists as vital partners in conveying complex policies and scientific achievements to the public. The interaction concluded on a note of open dialogue and mutual appreciation, underscoring a shared commitment to transparency, informed discourse and nation-building.(KINS)
