External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Launches IITM Global Research Foundation at IIT Madras
On January 6, 2026, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurated the IITM Global Research Foundation at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras). This initiative is designed to enhance the institute’s international engagement and research capabilities, marking a significant step towards evolving into a multinational university model.
Objectives of the IITM Global Research Foundation
The IITM Global Research Foundation aims to create a long-term platform that leverages IIT Madras’s academic and technological strengths to forge partnerships and access markets beyond India. The foundation will focus on the following key areas:
- International academic programmes
- Joint research and consultancy projects
- Startup collaboration
- Technology transfer
Focus Areas
The foundation will address several critical domains, including:
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Quantum Technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Space Technologies
- Mobility Solutions
- Energy and Water Systems
- Health Technologies
- Green Technologies
Plug-and-Play Framework
The IITM Global Research Foundation is structured as a ‘plug-and-play’ framework, facilitating connections between researchers, deep-tech innovators, startups, and industry partners. This approach aims to provide access to global research opportunities, funding sources, and markets, enabling flexible collaboration across various countries and sectors.
Launch Event Highlights
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including:
- Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras
- Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy, Dean for Global Engagement
- Madhav Narayan, CEO of the IITM Global Research Foundation
- Faculty members, researchers, students, and other stakeholders
During the event, Prof. Kamakoti emphasized the importance of this initiative in strengthening international collaboration and supporting startups seeking exposure in global markets. He mentioned that the foundation is initially establishing a presence in five locations: the United States, the United Kingdom, Dubai, Malaysia, and Germany. This initiative is expected to expand to multiple nations based on its success.
Dr. Jaishankar’s Remarks
In his address, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the significance of building domestic capabilities while engaging with the international community. He stated, “We have never considered the world as an inimical or hostile place from which we have to defensively protect ourselves. With limited resources, how do you have maximum impact? That is the problem that has to be solved.”
He further elaborated on India’s foreign policy, which aims to utilize national strengths and institutional capabilities for global engagement. Dr. Jaishankar cited the establishment of an IIT Madras campus in Tanzania as an example of how Indian foreign policy has effectively leveraged institutional capabilities to create a significant impact.
Inauguration of IITM Festival Fortnight
Alongside the launch of the IITM Global Research Foundation, Dr. Jaishankar also inaugurated the IITM Festival Fortnight, which includes the technical festival Shaastra and the cultural festival Saarang. These events showcase the vibrant academic and cultural life at IIT Madras.
About IIT Madras
IIT Madras is one of India’s premier engineering institutes, boasting 18 academic departments, 15 centres of excellence, 23 research centres, and over 100 advanced laboratories, supported by a dedicated faculty of approximately 650 members. Through the new foundation, IIT Madras aims to extend its international engagement while maintaining its commitment to research and education.
Conclusion
The launch of the IITM Global Research Foundation represents a significant milestone in IIT Madras’s journey towards becoming a global leader in research and innovation. By fostering international collaborations and engaging with global markets, the foundation is poised to enhance the institute’s impact on education, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Note: This article is based on information available as of October 2023 and aims to provide an overview of the IITM Global Research Foundation and its objectives.
