The recent bilateral discussion between India and the Netherlands highlighted the ongoing cooperation in various sectors such as science, technology and innovation. During this session, both countries explored potential areas of collaboration while emphasizing their mutual acknowledgements in the fields of health, agriculture and water.
The Focus Areas of Collaboration
Highlighting their previous collaborations, India underscored the trinity of Health, Agriculture and Water as the foundation of their mutual association. Further, Netherlands proposed joint work in the area of Green Hydrogen and ocean sciences. Both nations have mutually agreed to foster joint research and development concerning Smart Energy Grids, Big Data and Internet of Things (IoT).
India also invited Netherlands for knowledge exchange sessions specifically in the space sector. This invitation comes after India’s recent reforms allowing the private sector to participate in satellite launches and space-based activities equally.
Potential areas for future collaboration were identified as Solar Energy, Gas-based installations, Cyber Security, Data Science, Urban Water System and new arenas that could generate employment opportunities in India. The pressing issue of Climate Change was also brought to attention during this meeting.
Significant Initiatives By India
Recently, the Indian Government announced the National Hydrogen Mission on Independence Day aiming to position India as a global hub for Green Hydrogen Production and Export. Also, the Ministry of Earth Sciences commenced the Deep Ocean Mission, intending to explore deep-sea resources and develop sustainable technologies.
India-Netherlands Relations
The Netherlands plays a significant role in India’s economic and trade sectors, ranking as the sixth-largest foreign investor in FY 2021. Moreover, it stands as India’s fifth largest trading associate within the European Union. Historical relations date back to over 400 years when the first Dutch EIC was established in India around the 17th century AD.
Cultural Connections
Currently, the Netherlands hosts the most extensive Indian community in Europe. The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) established ‘The Gandhi Centre’ in The Hague in October 2011.
Scientific Collaborations
The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) works alongside various departments in the Indian Government on projects like “Local Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUS-HR).”
Water Management and Agriculture
Both countries participate in a platform titled Dutch Indo Water Alliance Leadership Initiative (DIWALI) to develop solutions for water challenges. Furthermore, agriculture has been chosen as a vital sector by the Netherlands to be bolstered through bilateral cooperation with India.
Healthcare Cooperation
In January 2014, an MoU for Cooperation was signed in the Field of Healthcare and Public Health to support research collaboration in emerging health challenges related to communicable diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
