NEW DELHI, October 27: India is set to host the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2026), a three-day gathering designed to connect scientific research, emerging technologies, policymakers, industry and startups.
The event is scheduled for October 27–29 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. According to the Prime Minister’s Office announcement issued on October 26, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the conclave at 5:30 PM on October 27 and address the gathering.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Issue/Event: Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026 scheduled to bring research and innovation stakeholders together.
Location: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, India.
Authority/Organisation: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, under the guidance of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.
Action Taken: A three-day programme announced with 12 thematic areas, around 150 deep-tech startup stalls and a Global Connect event for more than 300 invited participants.
Impact: The conclave aims to encourage scientific collaboration, support emerging technologies and strengthen pathways between research, industry and practical applications.
The programme will bring together scientists, researchers, academics, policymakers, industry leaders, startups and international experts to discuss India’s science and technology priorities and the practical use of emerging research.
Twelve areas of scientific and technological focus
ESTIC 2026 is expected to cover 12 thematic areas. The announced subjects include artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced materials, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, climate science and ocean science.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
For Indian research: The event can provide scientists and research institutions with opportunities to exchange knowledge, identify common priorities and explore partnerships. For startups: Deep-tech companies often need specialised expertise, investment, infrastructure and industry partners. An exhibition and networking programme can help connect innovators with potential collaborators. For healthcare and public services: Research in biotechnology, advanced healthcare and related technologies may support future improvements in diagnostics, treatment and health systems. However, the conclave itself does not guarantee specific medical breakthroughs. For strategic technology: Fields such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced materials and space technology are important to industrial capability and technological independence. For the economy: Stronger links between research institutions and businesses can help scientific ideas progress towards products and services, although commercial outcomes usually require sustained investment and follow-up work.
The discussions are intended to examine research priorities, strengthen national scientific capabilities and explore how scientific advances can be translated into practical applications. These areas are relevant to sectors ranging from industrial production and healthcare to energy security and environmental research.
Exhibition to showcase deep-tech startups
An innovation exhibition is planned as part of the conclave, with around 150 deep-tech startup stalls showcasing emerging technologies and their potential applications.
The exhibition is also expected to feature technology demonstrations, thematic videos, documentaries, information kiosks and augmented- and virtual-reality experiences. These activities are intended to make scientific developments more accessible and demonstrate how research can be applied beyond laboratories.
Global Connect aims to strengthen research partnerships
A new initiative, the Global Connect Networking Event, is expected to bring together more than 300 invited participants from academic institutions, research organisations and industry in India and abroad.
The initiative is designed to encourage international research partnerships, improve collaboration between universities and businesses, and explore ways to move innovations from laboratories towards commercial applications.
Space science and strategic technologies
Space science and technology will form part of the broader programme. The Indian Space Research Organisation has announced a dedicated thematic session for October 29 as part of ESTIC 2026. Earlier preparations highlighted planned discussions on space technologies and India’s longer-term scientific ambitions.
The conclave’s broader significance will depend on whether the discussions lead to concrete research partnerships, startup opportunities, investment, technology development and measurable outcomes after the event.
As of the time of this article’s preparation, the official announcement confirms the event’s schedule and planned programme. The inauguration and other scheduled activities should not be described as completed until official confirmation becomes available.
