The iCET is the framework of cooperation on critical and emerging technologies between India and the United States of America. This initiative was launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Sri Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden. iCET is now spearheaded by the National Security Advisors of the two countries, Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan.
The main goals and objectives of the iCET include:
- Improve collaboration between the two countries in the research and development of critical and emerging technologies.
- Promote the transfer of technology and knowledge between India and the US.
- Strengthen and enhance the security and resilience of the global technology supply chain.
The iCET covers a wide range of technological spectrums to deepen the cooperation between the two countries to promote economic development, national security, and shared democratic values. The two countries have identified six key focus areas of technology to enhance cooperation, co-development, and co-production.
- Artificial Intelligence
- Telecommunications: 5G/6G
- Semiconductors
- Space
- Quantum Computing
- Biotechnology
The iCET is led by the Security Councils of the two countries. They are also expected to involve other government bodies, businesses, researchers, and academic institutions. The iCET is considered to be a significant step towards technological cooperation between the two countries. It will foster the future advancement of technological research and development in a way that both countries will be able to leverage the benefits of this initiative.
Potential Benefits of the iCET:
Advancement in the critical and technological landscape will deliver significant benefits to both US and India. These benefits include:
1. Increased Innovation: By pooling their resources and talent both countries will be able to accelerate innovation in the identified technological areas.
2. Improved security and resilience: Both countries will be able to improve the security and resilience of the technological supply chain through the development and advancement of the newer technologies.
3. Economic Growth: The iCET will boost economic growth by bringing investments in the development of the newer technological horizons.
4. Global Leadership: The iCET will be able to help both nations shape and lead the global critical and emerging technological spectrum.
The iCET is a great step towards the US-India technology partnership. However, it must address the challenges of standarisation and common regulations of emerging technologies. Both the countries, USA and India should ensure talent mobility by addressing the cultural and financial barriers. If these challenges could be addressed by both countries, iCET has huge potential to deliver up to the expectations of technological leadership in critical and emerging technologies.