Representatives from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, made a significant impact at Bharat Innovates 2026, India's flagship innovation exhibition held in Nice, France. The event showcased a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence-powered industrial solutions, quantum communication technologies, healthcare innovations, and sustainable energy products.
Three-Day Event Attracts Global Participants
The three-day exhibition brought together universities, research institutions, startups, investors, and industry leaders from around the world. Participants explored cutting-edge technologies and discussed new opportunities for collaboration and partnership.
IIT-Delhi's Diverse Portfolio
IIT-Delhi presented a diverse portfolio of innovations developed by its researchers and startups across various sectors, including healthcare, defence, artificial intelligence, smart textiles, energy, and quantum technologies. The exhibits drew strong interest from global technology companies, investors, policymakers, and academic institutions, highlighting the institute's growing role in translating research into real-world applications and commercial solutions.
Recognition of International Partnerships
A key highlight of the exhibition was the recognition of IIT-Delhi's international partnerships. During interactions at the event, French President Emmanuel Macron specifically mentioned the institute's collaboration with Sorbonne University as an example of the deepening India-France partnership in higher education, research, and innovation.
The institute also played a prominent role in shaping the broader innovation agenda. Along with IIT-Bombay, IIT-Delhi served as co-chair of the Incubator Innovation Bridge, a global platform designed to connect startups, incubators, universities, investors, and research organisations. This initiative aims to facilitate mentoring, startup exchanges, and cross-border technology transfer, helping deep-tech ventures access international markets and growth opportunities.
Startup Showcase and Strategic Partnerships
Several startups linked to IIT-Delhi were among the 120 startups selected from across India to showcase their innovations at the event. Among them was deep-tech startup CYRAN-AI, which announced a strategic partnership with French aerospace and defence major Safran Aircraft Engines. This partnership aims to deploy advanced Edge AI technologies in precision manufacturing and aero-engine maintenance operations. Additionally, CYRAN-AI signed an agreement with Dutch semiconductor company Innatera to develop ultra-low-power neuromorphic AI systems for intelligent sensing and wearable technologies.
Expanding Global Footprint
IIT-Delhi expanded its global footprint by signing memoranda of understanding with Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Institut Mines-Télécom, and Université Grenoble Alpes. Its technology transfer arm, the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), also entered into partnerships with French innovation and startup organisations to promote collaboration between the entrepreneurial ecosystems of the two countries.
Director's Statement
Prof Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, said: "Bharat Innovates 2026 marks a significant step forward in positioning India's innovation ecosystem on the global stage. We believe there is strong synergy in our research and innovation partnerships with French universities, and together we can innovate and co-create solutions for India, France and beyond. The recognition of IIT Delhi's collaboration with Sorbonne University, the International Solar Alliance, and the new partnerships established through multiple MoUs reflect our commitment to building strong, long-term international collaborations. These engagements will accelerate research translation, strengthen our innovation ecosystem and enable solutions that address global challenges."
