Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET)

The recent visit of US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to India underscores the growing importance of the India-US partnership across several critical domains. This visit, the last of Sullivan’s term in the Biden administration, highlights the sustained commitment by the United States to strengthen bilateral relations with India while navigating the evolving global landscape. His visit marks a significant chapter in the narrative of two major democracies converging in their strategic, economic, and technological ambitions.

This partnership has been nurtured carefully by the Biden administration, with Sullivan playing a pivotal role in deepening the relationship. The primary focus lies not only in maintaining the strategic trajectory between the two nations but also in avoiding disruptions that could derail their collaboration. The two governments are building a long-term framework aimed at strengthening ties in ways that extend far beyond the conventional approaches of diplomacy.

Why is Advanced Technology a Cornerstone of the Partnership?

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the bilateral relationship has been the deepening cooperation in advanced technologies. The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), introduced by Jake Sullivan and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval in January 2023, stands at the forefront of this transformation. It signifies a new era where technological innovation transcends traditional governmental collaboration, extending into partnerships between industry, startups, and research organizations from both countries.

Through the iCET framework, the US and India are advancing cooperation in crucial sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, space technology, and biotechnology. This initiative reflects a strategic effort to reduce dependency on China for critical technology while fostering resilience and innovation within a network of trusted partners. The growing focus on these sectors underscores the strategic value of technology in defining the global economy for decades to come.

Historically, the US has played a crucial role in the development of India’s technological landscape, contributing significantly to its nuclear energy and space programs, as well as agricultural modernization. The iCET builds on this legacy and amplifies it through modern technologies that promise far-reaching economic and strategic implications.

What Challenges Have Shaped This Cooperation?

The history of India-US cooperation in technology has been turbulent, shaped by both collaboration and confrontation. In the early decades after India’s independence, there was robust bilateral engagement in technology. However, the 1970s ushered in an era of sanctions and restrictive non-proliferation norms, which hindered technological collaboration. The US, alongside other industrialized nations, imposed strict sanctions on India following its refusal to join the global non-proliferation regime.

India’s nuclear tests under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998 eventually laid the groundwork for resolving nuclear disputes and revitalizing technological cooperation. A breakthrough came with the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, brokered during the tenure of US President George W. Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. This landmark deal facilitated deeper collaboration in nuclear and related technologies, which subsequent administrations, including those led by Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, further consolidated.

Despite these strides, unresolved issues such as the provisions of India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 have deterred American and Indian companies from investing in nuclear energy projects. Two decades after the nuclear agreement was initiated, India has yet to finalize deals for building nuclear plants with international suppliers, except Russia.

How is the US Addressing Policy Barriers for Deeper Cooperation?

During his visit, Sullivan announced that the Biden administration is actively working to lift restrictions on civilian space cooperation with India, marking another significant milestone in the partnership. Efforts are also underway to delist key Indian atomic energy centers from the US blacklist, paving the way for smoother collaboration in civilian nuclear energy.

Both nations recognize the growing importance of nuclear energy in powering artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. With AI data centers requiring vast amounts of clean energy, nuclear power is becoming increasingly relevant. This renewed focus has reinvigorated interest in creating a conducive regulatory environment to accelerate the development of nuclear energy projects in India.

Can the Techno-Industrial Collaboration Survive Political Changes?

The enduring nature of India-US high-technology collaboration is rooted in shared geopolitical and geoeconomic objectives. As competition with China intensifies, the US aims to reclaim its technological leadership and secure its supply chains through partnerships with trusted allies like India. Similarly, India remains keen on boosting its capabilities in advanced technologies to enhance both its economic and security profiles.

Nevertheless, sustaining this progress requires continuous diplomatic and political engagement. Sullivan’s meetings with Indian leaders, coupled with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Washington, highlight a concerted effort to ensure a smooth transition of priorities even as political administrations evolve. While the fundamentals of the partnership are expected to endure, a shift in leadership, particularly under a potential Trump administration, could introduce different nuances to the collaboration.

What Lies Ahead for India and the United States?

As the Biden administration concludes its term, it leaves behind a solid foundation for the next administration to build upon. Several priorities remain critical for both nations:

  • Implementation of Nuclear Energy Projects: Resolving issues related to liability laws and concluding agreements for nuclear plant construction should be a priority, particularly given the growing role of clean energy in supporting advanced technological systems.
  • Deepening Collaboration in AI, Biotechnology, and Semiconductors: The iCET’s focus on emerging sectors must translate into concrete projects and industry partnerships, ensuring tangible outcomes in innovation and job creation.
  • Enhancing Strategic Alignment in the Indo-Pacific: Both nations must continue to work together to counterbalance China’s dominance in the region, leveraging their partnership to promote security and stability.

The bilateral relationship between India and the US, defined by mutual interests in technology, strategic security, and economic resilience, stands poised for further growth. However, achieving its full potential demands consistent effort, mutual trust, and visionary leadership in both Delhi and Washington.

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