Bharat Innovates 2026 brought together leaders from government, higher education, research, technology and industry as part of the India–France Year of Innovation, creating a platform for strategic dialogue on innovation, talent development and international collaboration.
The event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the growing importance of the India–France partnership and its commitment to strengthening global innovation ecosystems.
Athena GESDA supported the participation of European and British universities, facilitating opportunities for institutions to build meaningful relationships with Indian industry, government stakeholders and higher education partners. The event served as an important platform for exploring collaborative initiatives in research, innovation, knowledge exchange and workforce development, while also enabling universities to strengthen their visibility and engagement within one of the world’s most dynamic education markets.
Discussions highlighted the increasingly important role of universities in driving innovation, supporting technology transfer and developing future-ready talent. Alongside academic and research collaboration, there was strong recognition of the value of international partnerships in creating pathways for student mobility, graduate employability and institutional growth.
For international institutions seeking to establish or expand their presence in India, events such as Bharat Innovates provide a unique opportunity to engage directly with key decision-makers, develop strategic partnerships and contribute to the evolving relationship between higher education, industry and government.
Athena GESDA remains committed to supporting universities in building sustainable partnerships, strengthening their market presence and developing impactful engagement strategies that connect global institutions with opportunities across India.
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