On May 27, 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh chaired a high-level review meeting with secretaries of all major science departments at the Science Centre, New Delhi. The meeting unveiled India’s ambitious plan to develop the Electric Hansa (E-Hansa), a next-generation two-seater electric trainer aircraft, and outlined transformative reforms to boost India’s science and technology ecosystem. The initiatives align with the Viksit Bharat vision, emphasizing green technology, public-private partnerships (PPP), and global collaboration.
The E-Hansa, developed by the CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) in Bengaluru, is a cost-effective and indigenous trainer aircraft. Priced at approximately Rs 2 crore, it is roughly half the cost of comparable imported trainer aircraft. Part of the HANSA-3 (NG) program, the E-Hansa supports India’s green aviation goals by utilizing clean energy fuel. This initiative enhances pilot training affordability and promotes sustainable aviation, positioning India as a leader in eco-friendly aerospace technology.
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for commercializing indigenous technologies through robust public-private partnerships. He directed the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) to adopt successful models like DBT-BIRAC and IN-SPACe for technology transfer and private sector engagement. Advocating a hub-and-spoke PPP model supported by AI-driven tech/IP exchange platforms and regional National Technology Transfer Offices (NTTOs), he stressed: “Private players should not just be knowledge partners, but also investment partners.” Standardized tech transfer protocols and ease of doing business were highlighted to promote Indian R&D globally under the ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.
The Minister commended ISRO for the successful Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX), a critical milestone for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. He also lauded ISRO’s role in Operation Sindoor, noting its collaboration with 40 Union Ministries and 28 State Governments. ISRO’s upcoming missions and its contribution to the Axiom Space Mission, including Group Captain Subhash Shukla’s seven microgravity experiments at the International Space Station (ISS), were highlighted as boosting India’s space science profile.
Aligning with the Viksit Bharat vision, Dr. Singh proposed region-wise Chintan Shivirs to foster integrated planning among departments like DST, DBT, CSIR, ISRO, Earth Sciences, and Atomic Energy. Following the success of a Chintan Shivir by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in Chennai, these events aim to enhance synergy and innovation. To strengthen biomanufacturing, a “Global Science Talent Bridge” was proposed to attract global researchers. The Minister also noted the opening of 37 CSIR labs to students, as announced in Mann Ki Baat, though temporarily paused due to security concerns.
Dr. Singh highlighted growing interest from countries like Switzerland and Italy in establishing bilateral science collaboration centres, similar to Indo-French and Indo-German Science Centres. These partnerships aim to advance global R&D and position India as a hub for scientific innovation.The E-Hansa initiative and the review meeting underscore India’s commitment to green technology, indigenous innovation, and global scientific leadership. By fostering PPP models, enhancing ISRO’s capabilities, and promoting data-driven policymaking, India is strengthening its science ecosystem. These efforts support Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, driving economic growth and sustainable development.
The E-Hansa project and the science review meeting are critical for competitive exam aspirants, highlighting India’s science and technology policies, green aviation initiatives, and space achievements. Understanding E-Hansa, SPADEX, Gaganyaan, and the Whole-of-Science approach provides insights into current affairs, innovation policies, and India’s global scientific standing.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Science Review Meeting and E-Hansa Announcement |
| Date | May 27, 2025 |
| Key Figure | Dr. Jitendra Singh |
| Key Initiative | Electric Hansa (E-Hansa) Trainer Aircraft |
| Developer | CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) |
| Cost | Approx. Rs 2 crore, half the price of imported alternatives |
| ISRO Achievements | SPADEX success, Operation Sindoor, Axiom Space Mission |
| Focus Areas | Green aviation, PPP models, technology commercialization, global collaboration |
| Significance | Aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Viksit Bharat 2047 |