External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar Launches IITM Global Research Foundation
On January 3, 2026, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar officially launched the IITM Global Research Foundation, an initiative by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras). This foundation aims to enhance IIT Madras’s global presence and establish it as a leading institution in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship on an international scale.
Objectives of the IITM Global Research Foundation
The IITM Global Research Foundation is designed as a strategic, sustainable, and scalable platform. Its primary objectives include:
- Supporting international academic programs
- Facilitating research and consultancy
- Encouraging startup collaboration
- Promoting technology transfer
The foundation will focus on several key areas, including:
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Quantum Technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Space Technologies
- Mobility Solutions
- Energy and Water Systems
- Health Technologies
- Green Technologies
A Dynamic Framework for Innovation
The IITM Global Research Foundation is envisioned as a dynamic ‘plug-and-play’ framework. This design allows deep-tech innovators, researchers, startups, and industry partners to access global markets, capital, and research opportunities seamlessly.
Launch Event Highlights
The launch event was attended by notable figures, including:
- Prof. V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras
- Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean of Global Engagement
- Madhav Narayan, CEO of IIT Madras Global Research Foundation
- Faculty members, researchers, students, and various stakeholders
Statements from Key Figures
During the launch, Prof. Kamakoti emphasized the foundation’s role in strengthening international collaboration. He stated that it would facilitate technology transfer, joint research projects, and provide overseas market access for startups. He also mentioned that the foundation aims to attract foreign investment.
Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the importance of strengthening domestic capabilities while engaging internationally. He noted, “Countries progress by strengthening domestic capabilities and then engaging internationally to contribute to and benefit from the global environment.” He also pointed out the challenges posed by limited resources and the need for maximum impact, stating, “What we try to do in Indian Foreign Policy and diplomacy today is solve that problem.”
Furthermore, Dr. Jaishankar referred to the establishment of an IIT Madras campus in Tanzania as an example of how Indian Foreign Policy leverages institutional capabilities to create a significant impact abroad.
Additional Events During the Launch
In addition to the foundation’s launch, Dr. Jaishankar inaugurated the IITM Festival Fortnight, which includes the annual technical festival Shaastra and the cultural festival Saarang. He also participated in a fireside chat with students and faculty, fostering dialogue on various topics related to education and innovation.
About IIT Madras
IIT Madras is one of India’s premier engineering institutions, comprising:
- 18 academic departments
- 15 centers of excellence
- 23 research centers
- Nearly 100 advanced laboratories
- Over 650 faculty members
- A student community of more than 10,000
Through the IITM Global Research Foundation, IIT Madras aims to extend its international engagement while maintaining a strong focus on education and research.
Future Prospects
Initially, the foundation plans to establish a presence in five key locations: the United States, the United Kingdom, Dubai, Malaysia, and Germany. Based on the success of these initiatives, there are plans to expand the foundation’s reach to additional countries, thereby enhancing IIT Madras’s global footprint.
Conclusion
The launch of the IITM Global Research Foundation marks a significant step in IIT Madras’s evolution into a globally-networked educational institution. By fostering international collaboration and innovation, the foundation aims to not only contribute to India’s academic landscape but also to make a meaningful impact on a global scale.
Note: The information in this article is based on the official announcement and statements made during the launch event.
