• iCET stands for Initiative On Critical And Emerging Technologies
• iCET is a unique initiative led by the Indian National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and the U.S. National Security Council (NSC).
• It aims to expand partnership in critical and emerging technologies.
• Six areas of cooperation
  • Scientific research and development
  • Quantum and artificial intelligence
  • Defense innovation
  • Space
  • Advanced telecom include things like 6G
  • Semiconductors

Significance of iCET

• Vital for India’s growing role as a trusted supply chain partner and contributor in the global technology value chain.
• Deals directly with disruptive domains which are central to the next Industrial Revolution and future warfare.
• Open new markets for India’s deep technology players. Since most critical and emerging technologies today are dual-use, it can give a fillip to the two countries’ innovation ecosystem.
• Potentially opens the door for the US to lift existing export control restrictions.

Measures to strengthen iCET

• Introduce an advisory council/steering committee by including industry representatives, technologists, philanthropists, academics etc.
• Regular high-level meetings.
• Monitoring mechanism to ensure that impact is being recorded at every level.
• ICET fellowship and connector fund created.