Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative (SDI) 2026

Syllabus: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests

Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser

Why in news?

The Office of the PSA and Observer Research Foundation (ORF) announced a partnership for the inaugural Raisina Science Diplomacy Initiative to be held in March 2026.

⚛️Static Concepts

National Quantum MissionTechnology Control Regimes (e.g., Wassenaar Arrangement)Strategic Trade Authorisation (STA-1)

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Prelims-Oriented Points

Objective: To deliberate on the intersection of science, technology, and diplomacy in an era of 'strategic autonomy'.
Themes: Governing disruptive technologies, technology control regimes, and research security in a multipolar world.
Participation: Platform for scientists, diplomats, and deep-tech innovators from India and the Global South.
Context: Scheduled alongside the Raisina Dialogue 2026 (5-7 March).

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Examiner's Trap: Science Diplomacy is NOT just about research collaboration; it includes negotiating global standards and regulatory processes for emerging technologies.

Quick Data Points

SDI scheduled for 5-7 March 2026

Jointly led by OPSA and ORF

Mains Value Addition

GS-2: Science Diplomacy; Global Governance; Strategic Autonomy.

Strategic Autonomy: India's ability to shape global tech standards is crucial for maintaining independence in a divided world.
Global South Voice: SDI provides a platform for developing nations to influence scientific governance.
Technology Control: Addressing regimes that limit access to critical technologies (like semiconductors or AI) is a key diplomatic priority.

Source

Press Information Bureau (PIB)