India, UK to explore avenues in space sector

Updated on: Saturday, July 31, 2010

India and the UK today decided to enhance cooperation in scientific research and explore possibilities for collaboration in the space sector.

British Minister for Universities and Science David Willets held discussions with Science and Technology Minister Prithviraj Chavan on further strengthening cooperation in science and research here.

Emerging from the meeting, Willets told reporters that he also held discussions with Chavan on cooperation in the space and nuclear research sectors.

During the parleys, Willets highlighted the work done by British scientists in the Pressurised Water Reactors.

On cooperation in the space sector, he pointed out that India has developed expertise in launching small satellites and Britain was in the process of developing satellites.

"India has a robust space programme and offers satellite launches at cheaper costs compared to those offered by western countries," Chavan noted.

Asked whether discussions were held on any specific areas, he said "it was too premature to talk about it at this moment."

The two countries also agreed to launch joint research programmes to bridge the rural/urban divide and provide technological solutions to improve the quality of life of rural inhabitants in both the countries.

The two leaders decided to work together on a new initiative to encourage multi-disciplinary research partnerships to develop the next generation of environmentally friendly fuel cell technologies.

Willets is here as part of the delegation accompanying British Prime Minister David Cameron on a two-day visit to India. During the visit, the Department of Biotechnology and Wellcome Trust announced a 45 million pound initiative to support the development of innovative healthcare products at affordable costs.

India, UK to explore avenues in space sector

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