NEW DELHI, JAN 10: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and MoS for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh hosted an informal luncheon get-together for journalists and media persons at his residence on Saturday, marking the first such interaction in the New Year.
The Minister has maintained this tradition of periodic informal media luncheons at his residence over the past decade, creating platforms for candid discussions on contemporary issues. Saturday’s gathering provided journalists from print and electronic media an opportunity for open exchange of views on science, technology, governance reforms and national development priorities.
During the interaction, Dr Jitendra Singh outlined major legislative and policy developments, including the SHANTI Act and the strategic role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India’s clean energy transition. He emphasized that nuclear energy remains pivotal for ensuring long-term energy security while fulfilling climate commitments, sharing updates on upcoming nuclear power projects across various locations.
Highlighting the government’s reform momentum, the Minister noted that science reforms are expanding rapidly while governance reforms are increasingly technology-driven. He cited digital platforms like CPGRAMS as examples of technology enhancing transparency, accountability and citizen-centric service delivery, adding that India’s governance innovations are attracting growing international attention, with foreign students studying Indian administrative and digital governance models.
Dr Singh highlighted transformative citizen-oriented initiatives, particularly the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) campaign, which has simplified pension verification processes significantly. He stressed that such digital reforms underscore the government’s commitment to improving “ease of living” and “ease of working” through technology-enabled governance.
On the research front, the Minister discussed the landmark ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) funding initiative, describing it as a game-changer for strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem, encouraging private sector R&D participation, and accelerating the journey from research ideas to practical impact.
Discussing space achievements, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted how space applications are enhancing everyday lives through better communication, weather forecasting, disaster management, agriculture and navigation services. He shared progress on ambitious upcoming missions including Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, which will further elevate India’s lunar exploration capabilities.
The Minister also spotlighted science-led socio-economic initiatives like the Lavender Revolution and other mission-mode programmes that are creating livelihood opportunities in rural and hilly regions by integrating science, technology and local entrepreneurship.
Throughout the engagement, Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized the media’s crucial role as partners in communicating complex policy initiatives and scientific achievements to the public. He appreciated journalists’ contributions to informed public discourse and constructive feedback on governance matters.
The luncheon concluded in an atmosphere of open dialogue and mutual appreciation, reinforcing the shared commitment between government and media towards nation-building through transparency, collaboration and informed discussion.
