Marking six decades of India–Singapore diplomatic ties, three of Chhattisgarh’s premier institutions — IIM Raipur, IIT Bhilai, and NIT Raipur — have launched high-level talks with Singaporean educational and research bodies to forge fresh academic and industrial partnerships.

At a joint dialogue with the Consulate-General of Singapore, leaders from the institutes explored possibilities ranging from joint courses and dual-degree programmes to expanded student exchanges and collaborative research initiatives.

The Singapore delegation, led by Consul (Political) Jerome Wong and Ms. Ericka, engaged with Professor Sanjeev Prashar, Director-In-Charge, IIM Raipur; Professor Rajiv Prakash, Director, IIT Bhilai; and Dr. N.V. Ramana Rao, Director, NIT Raipur. Officials from the Chhattisgarh State Tourism Development Corporation also participated.

Semiconductors, data hubs, and skill development on agenda

The discussions identified Chhattisgarh’s growing industrial base as fertile ground for semiconductor development and digital infrastructure projects, including data centres. Singaporean representatives underlined their readiness to connect Indian institutions with universities and industries in Singapore, enabling applied research, innovation, and skill development programmes.

Beyond academia, the talks also touched on government-to-government cooperation, including the possibility of linking Singaporean industries and policy bodies with Chhattisgarh’s innovation ecosystem.

Institutional heads emphasised that the long-term vision is to create platforms for joint research, sustainable development, and globally relevant academic models — combining India’s education strengths with Singapore’s skill-driven pedagogy.