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INDIA-CANADA in Focus

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India-Canada High Level Bilateral Meeting in New Delhi...................................................6 List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the State Visit of Prime Minister of Canada........7 India-Canada Joint Statement 2018...................................................................................8

Contents

An Exclusive Interview with the High Commissioner of India...........................................12 India-Canada Ties on an Upswing...................................................................................14 Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Positive on Canada-India Business Ties...................18 Indian Diaspora: A Unique Global Asset..........................................................................20 India-Canada: Bilateral Engagements.............................................................................22 Historic Trade Mission to India Unleashes New Partnerships..........................................24 First of a Kind Commercial Demonstration of Douglas Fir Glue Laminated Beams at CEPT Centre of Excellence Workshop..................................26 India Carves a Unique Place in Space............................................................................30 India-Canada Partnerships Bearing Fruit.........................................................................34 Canada and India’s Relationship Strengthened by People-to-People Ties......................36 New Market Access Programme will Introduce Indian and Canadian Female Founders to New Opportunities...................................................40 A Canadian Project, Inspired by India..............................................................................42

Published by Krest Publications in association with High Commission of India, Ottawa, Canada B-7 / 17 / 1, Ground Floor, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi-110029 (India) Tel. : +91.11.4610 5601 / 02, 4653 9323 • Fax : 011-4610 5603 • Email: publisher@diplomacy.in • Printing: Rave India Project Coordinator: Raj Kumar Verma Disclaimer: 'India-Canada in Focus' is a special publication and for the promotion of bilateral ties. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the position of the High Commission of India, Canada or the Government of India. Every effort has been made to verify and cross-check facts / figures as well as published information. The magazine has no commercial value and is not for sale. It is for private circulation only.

Canada-India Centre for Excellence CARLETON UNIVERSITY

Your Canadian Partner in: Advocacy – Capacity Building – Business Acceleration – Research Partnerships – Professional Development Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, the Canada-India Centre for Excellence is a research and training centre to promote bilateral ties. We offer: • Short-term training programs through the Global Academy • Canada-India Business Acceleration Program for the empowerment of women-led technology companies

• Capacity building program for Smart Cities • Key academic partnership in aerospace research, environmental engineering, and entrepreneurship

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Carleton University...........................................................................................................................45 Strengthening of Canada-India Commercial Relationship................................................................46 Art and Culture a Tool to Forge Strong Links between Canada and India........................................ 52 The Golden Temple in Amritsar (Punjab), Holy Shrine of Sikhs........................................................54 Canada’s International Development Research Centre is India’s Partner in Progress...................... 57 "IDRC Research Leads to Better Outcomes" - Dr. Anindya Chatterjee, Regional Director (IDRC)...58 Half a Century of Building Community and Finding Solutions together: The Work of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute...............................................................60

Contents

Media Fulfils the Duty of Pointing out the Government’s Wrongs, Says Canadian PM Justin Trudeau...................................................................................................44

Bilateral Ties

India-Canada High Level Bilateral Meeting in New Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on February 23, 2018 discussed strengthening cooperation in trade & investment, energy, education, healthcare, IT, start up, science & technology, defence and security, tourism and people-to-people contacts.

Prime Minister Mr. Narendera Modi and Prime Minister of Canada Mr. Justin Trudeau issued a Joint Statement at Hyderabad House in New Delhi (February 23, 2018)

As Canada looks to diversify its own economy and looks for new opportunities to do business beyond its boundaries, India is a natural partner and a trusted friend for commercial cooperation Prime Minister Trudeau We share not only a rich history but a set of values that encourage a natural friendship between our two countries. Prime Minister Trudeau

We discussed many issues including defence cooperation. Terrorism & extremism are a threat to countries like ours and to fight these elements it is important for us to come together. Prime Minister Modi There should be no space for those who misuse religion for political motives and promote separatism. We will not tolerate those who challenge unity and integrity of our countries. Prime Minister Modi Canada is an energy super power and it can help us in our growing energy needs. We have decided to expand our energy dialogue and prepare a strategy for future. Prime Minister Modi

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Prime Minister Modi and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada hold delegation level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi (February 23, 2018)

List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the State Visit of Prime Minister of Canada to India (February 23, 2018) S. No.

Name of MoUs/Agreements

Indian side

Canadian side

Joint Declaration of Intent Between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of The Republic of India and the Department of Innovation, Science And Economic Development of Canada on Cooperation in the Field of Information Communications Technology and Electronics.

Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister Law & Justice, Electronics & Information Technology.

Mr. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

Terms of Reference for the India-Canada Ministerial Energy Dialogue Between the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas of The Republic of India and the Department of Natural Resources of Canada.

Shri Dharmendra M s . C h r y s t i a Pradhan, Minister for Freeland, Minister Petroleum and Natural of Foreign Minister Gas.

Memorandum of Understanding Between the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports of the Republic of India and the Department of Canadian Heritage (Sport Canada) on Cooperation in Sport

Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Youth Affairs And Sports

Memorundum of Understanding Between the Shri Ramesh Abhishek, Mr. Nadir Patel, High Department of Industrial Policy And Promotion, S e c r e t a r y ( I n d u s t r y Commissioner of Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government Policy and Promotion) Canada to India. of Republic of India and the Canadian Intellectual Property Office Concerning Cooperation on Intellectual Property Rights.

Memorundum of Understanding Between the Government of the Republic of India and The Government of Canada Concerning Cooperation in Higher Education.

Memorandum of Understanding Between the D r . S e k h a r B a s u , Mr. Nadir Patel, High Department of Atomic Energy of The Republic of C h a i r m a n A E C a n d Commissioner of India and The Department of Natural Resources Secretary DAE. Canada to India. of Canada Concerning Co-Operation in the Fields of Science, Technology and Innovation

Ms. Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Sports and Persons with Disabilities.

Shri R. Subrahmaniam, Mr. Nadir Patel, High Spl Secretary, Dept Commissioner of of Higher Education, Canada to India. MHRD.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Joint Statement

India-Canada Joint Statement during State Visit of Prime Minister of Canada to India Issued on February 23, 2018 "Partnership for Security and Growth"

Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, signing the visitor's book in New Delhi (February 23, 2018). Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi is also seen.

rime Minister of Canada, The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, paid a State Visit to India from 18 to 24 February 2018 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi. The prime ministers met in New Delhi on February 23 and reaffirmed the breadth and scope of Canada-India relations, based on the fundamental principle of respect for sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the two countries. They reaffirmed their commitment to the ongoing diversification and growth of the strategic partnership, based on shared values of democracy, diversity, pluralism, and rule of

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law. The leaders also affirmed the importance of protecting and advancing human rights at home and abroad, promoting gender equality and the importance of civil society groups as a mainstay of democratic societies. They agreed to continue deepening their close ties and to leverage the complementarity between their two countries in key areas. Towards this objective, the leaders agree on the following: Investing in Mutual Growth i. To continue strengthening the government-to-government framework for cooperative economic engagements, the

prime ministers welcomed the conclusion of, and progress on, cooperation agreements/ MoUs in areas such as civil nuclear science and technology, education, audio-visual coproduction, information t e c h n o l o g y, i n t e l l e c t u a l property and sports. ii. To realize the full potential of bilateral trade and investment, both sides will renew efforts to expand and diversify bilateral economic and commercial relations. They will also intensify negotiations to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and a Bilateral Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement.

Joint Statement iii. To encourage the private sectors to further explore investment opportunities in both countries, including through India's flagship programmes such as Make in India, Start-Up India, Digital India and Smart Cities, as well as Canadian programs such as the Innovation and Skills Plan, the Canadian Technology Accelerators, the Start-Up VISA Program and the Global Skills Strategy. The leaders welcomed the signing of commercial agreements which will create new economic opportunities and jobs in both countries. They applauded the launch of the CanadaIndia Accelerator Program for Women Tech Entrepreneurs, as well as the decision to convene a Canada-India Track 1.5 Dialogue on Innovation, Growth and Prosperity. iv. The Prime Ministers emphasized the importance of ensuring access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food for all, and noted that transparency and predictability of market access conditions, including sharing of information on production of agricultural commodities, are key in advancing the food security goals of both countries. India and Canada will work closely together to finalize an arrangement within 2018 to enable the export of Canadian pulses to India free from pests of quarantine importance, with mutually acceptable technological protocols. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will continue to work closely with the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority to facilitate access for Indian organic products. Working Together on Climate Change, Oceans, Space and Clean Energy v. To strengthen bilateral and international cooperation to

address climate change and secure a clean energy future, they committed to promoting the implementation of the Paris Agreement. The leaders welcomed the initiative to establish the International Solar Alliance to promote renewable energy for sustainable development. They urged research institutions and industry in both countries to collaborate to promote greater use of solar technology. vi. The leaders underscored the importance of accelerating the global transition to affordable,

and working at the global level to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals. vii. The leaders agreed to expand the scope of the CanadaIndia Ministerial Energy Dialogue to additionally include electricity, energy efficiency and renewables, and agreed to hold the fourth meeting of the Ministerial Energy Dialogue in Canada in 2018. viii. T he leaders welcomed the

Prime Minister and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada witness exchange of MoUs/Agreements at Hyderabad House in New Delhi (February 23, 2018)

reliable, sustainable and modern energy sources and acknowledged that renewable energy is a pathway to a lowcarbon and more sustainable energy system. In this regard, they agreed to work together to explore opportunities to use innovative financing mechanisms. They also agreed to the importance of providing clear and predictable signals for longâ€“term investment and innovation in clean technologies

continuation of uranium exports from Canada for peaceful use of civil nuclear power. The leaders agreed to expand the ongoing mutually-beneficial civil nuclear cooperation by developing collaboration in nuclear science and technology. They welcomed the signing of an Agreement between the Department of Atomic Energy and the Department of Natural Resources Canada. ix. To e n h a n c e g e o - s p a t i a l

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Joint Statement

Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, during CEO's Forum in New Delhi (February 23, 2018)

collaboration and to consider Indian participation in Canadian Arctic research. The prime ministers also expressed satisfaction at the expansion of India-Canada space cooperation, including the launch of Canadian satellites. Advancing Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Girls x. The leaders highlighted the importance of empowering women and girls in order to secure a more just and prosperous future for everyone. They recognized the importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights of women and girls and welcomed the announcement of new health innovations in India through Canada and India Grand Challenges. xi. The leaders underscored the commitment to combat all forms of gender-based violence and exploitation against women, girls and children. The leaders also affirmed their joint commitment to Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals,

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underscoring their shared commitment to gender equality and the realization of human rights for women and girls across all spheres of economic, social, cultural and political life. Building a More Peaceful and Secure World xii. Recognizing that terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization to violence present acute challenges to global peace, stability and prosperity, the leaders resolved to combat terrorism and violent extremism in all their forms and manifestations. They called for bringing terrorists to justice and holding accountable state sponsors of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. They further emphasized that no country should allow its territory to be used for terrorist and violent extremist activities. xiii. To w a r d s t h i s e n d , t h e leaders agreed to expand security cooperation through institutionalization of NSAlevel Dialogue and regular convening of Foreign Ministerlevel Strategic Dialogue. They welcomed the meetings of

their national security advisors and of the bilateral counterterrorism working group, which focused on practical measures to enhance cooperation in that sphere. In this regard, the leaders welcomed the agreement on a bilateral Framework for Cooperation on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism. xiv. The leaders expressed strong concern at the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan and noted that terrorist activities pose a grave threat to peace, security and stability of Afghanistan and the region. They called for immediate cessation of violence, renunciation of links with international terrorism and dismantling of infrastructure of support to terrorism from across borders of Afghanistan. Both sides reaffirmed their support to the Government and the people of Afghanistan in their efforts to achieve an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled national peace and reconciliation process and build a peaceful, secure, united, democratic,

Joint Statement prosperous and pluralistic nation. xv. To reaffirm the importance of lawful commerce and the freedom of navigation and over-flight throughout the IndoPacific region, in accordance with international law, including the rights and jurisdiction of states under UNCLOS. The leaders supported bolstering regional connectivity through transparent development of infrastructure and use of responsible debt financing practices, while ensuring respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the rule of law and environment. xvi. Recognizing that Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s continued enhancement of its nuclear and ballistic missile program poses a grave threat to regional security and global peace, the leaders called on DPRK to abide strictly by its international obligations and commitments. They called on all states to implement rigorously relevant U.N. Security Council resolutions and hold accountable all those that have supported DPRK’s nuclear and missile programmes. xvii. The two leaders congratulated South Korea on the successful PyeongChang Winter Games and welcomed the participation of DPRK in the Games, expressing hope that sports cooperation would lead to easing of tensions on the Korean Peninsula and improvements in inter-Korean relations. xviii. The two leaders expressed strong concern about recent developments in Maldives and their implications for a free society. As leaders of parliamentary systems, they deplored the degradation of judicial independence and authority and of democratic institutions, as well as respect for fundamental freedoms,

including those of speech and assembly, constitutional rights and obligations under i n t e r n a t i o n a l l a w. T h e Government of Maldives was urged to ensure early resumption of the political process after revoking the state of emergency and to allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary, to function independently in a fair and transparent manner. xix. The two leaders discussed the humanitarian and security crisis in Rakhine State of Myanmar and across the border in Bangladesh. Canada and India call for the voluntary, safe and sustainable return of the people displaced, while stressing the importance of ensuring law and order and respect for human dignity in this process. They called for restoration of humanitarian access for relevant UN and other international organisations to facilitate the return process. xx. To develop bilateral defence cooperation by exploring cooperation possibilities in diverse fields including cold climate training, enhancing naval interactions, and staff exchanges. xxi. T he two leaders affirmed cooperation on peacekeeping to provide an effective response to global challenges. They stressed the importance of integrating gender perspectives into peace and security activities and interventions in line with the women, peace and security agenda, including prevention of conflict-related sexual violence. xxii. The leaders agreed that Canada and India would coordinate on cyber security and addressing cyber crimes at bilateral and multilateral forums going forward. xxiii. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for Canada’s support towards India’s accession to the MTCR,

Wassenaar Arrangement and the Australia Group. Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s strong support for India’s membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Enhancing People-to-People Contacts xxiv. Recognizing the dynamic role of people-to-people ties in the India-Canada partnership, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to address consular issues of mutual concern through discussion between the concerned officials. They welcomed the expansion of direct air connectivity between Indian and Canadian cities. xxv. Noting the significant increase in number of Indian students in Canada, the leaders expressed satisfaction at the renewal of the MOU on higher education. They recognized the 50th Anniversary of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute in promoting understanding between India and Canada through academic activities and exchanges, with the support of both governments to the institute. The leaders also agreed on the benefits of supporting the arts, sports and cultural activities in each other’s country, and agreed to encourage collaboration between academia and think tanks. xxvi. The prime ministers also resolved to facilitate the movement of highly skilled persons from India to Canada under the Global Skills Strategy, to fully harness the complementarity between their technological capabilities and human resources. Prime Minister Trudeau invited Prime Minister Modi to return to Canada at an early date. Prime Minister Modi accepted the invitation.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Exclusive Interview

“Prime Minister Trudeau’s Visit has Put New Energy Into India’s Bilateral Ties with Canada”- High Commissioner Following the conclusion of the visit by Prime Minister, Mr. Justin Trudeau, India’s High Commissioner to Canada, H.E. Mr. Vikas Swarup spoke to Editor Harun Riaz in an exclusive interview at New Delhi. Here are the excerpts; Excellency, how will you sumup the recent state visit by Prime Minister of Canada Mr. Justin Trudeau? And what impact it will have on future India Canada ties? As you know the visit by the Prime Minister of Canada The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau was long anticipated. We are extremely happy that he chose to visit India in the first quarter of 2018 and that he was accompanied by a very strong delegation including six Cabinet Ministers, fourteen Members of Parliament and one Senator. There was also a very strong business component. In overall terms, this visit has infused new energy in India-Canada bilateral ties. It will help both governments refocus their attention on critical issues of security, trade, investment and further strengthen the longstanding people-to-people ties. I am very optimistic that this visit will help deepen and diversify the India-Canada Strategic Partnership to the mutual benefit of citizens in both countries. It is noticed in the India Canada Joint Declaration that both countries have still not signed the comprehensive economic partnership agreement and a bilateral foreign investment promotion and protection agreement. Why it has taken so long?

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Ambitious agreements of this nature always take time. If you look at FTAs that India has done with countries such as Japan, South Korea and Singapore, they also matured after several rounds of negotiations. I believe both sides are very close to finalizing these agreements. If you read the joint statement both Prime Ministers have categorically instructed chief negotiators to speed up the conclusion of these agreements. I am hopeful that both these agreements will be signed in due course and will act as catalyst for greater trade and investment between India and Canada. The bilateral trade between India and Canada has not been fully exploited and the trade figures are low. What should be done to comprehensively enhance bilateral trade?

Yes, you are right. The bilateral trade is below potential at 8 billion dollars in goods and 2 billion dollars in services. I think we are still scratching the surface as there is perfect complementaritybetween India and Canada. Canada has the technological, academic and financial resources that India needs and India can provide Canada with one of the largest markets in the world and a trained Englishspeaking work force. During Prime Minister Trudeau’s visit business deals worth $ 1 billion were signed. Canadian Pension Funds have already invested more than $ 15 billion in India. So the prospects for an enhanced trade and investment partnership are very bright. Canada is also trying to diversify its export basket beyond the US market and cannot find a better market than India.

Exclusive Interview How will you describe the immense success of the Indian diaspora in Canada so much so that key portfolios in the government are held by the people of Indian origin? If you look at the history of the Indian diaspora, it has succeeded all across the world, from Surinam to South Africa, and from Australia to North America. The Indian diaspora is a model immigrant community, because of its strong focus on work ethic, rule of law and family values. These qualities have led to the success of the Indian diaspora in Canada as well. India is very proud of the tremendous success that Indo-Canadians have achieved in every sector in Canada. The head of Canada Post, the head of TD Bank are persons of Indian origin andthey have done fantastically well as real estate developers, civil servants, doctors, academicians and industrialists.However, it is in the field of politics where IndoCanadians have blazed a unique trail. Today, Canada boasts of 21 Members of Parliament of Indian origin in a House of 338 members. Four Cabinet Ministers, including the Ministers of Defence, Economic Development and Infrastructure and the Leader of the House are Indo-Canadians who have retained strong links with India. It is also a testament to Canadaâ€™s openness and embracing nature. Whatâ€™s the contribution of Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute and IC-IMPACTS on India Canada bilateral ties? The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute is a binational body which has worked tirelessly over the past fifty years to promote greater academic collaboration between India and Canada. As you know, many a time it is academic partnerships which lead the way to business partnerships. The Shastri Indo Canadian Institute has a network of over 120 Universities in both India

and Canada which serve as valuable bridges for fruitful collaboration in a whole host of subjects. Both governments should continue to support the Shastri Institute. India has already announced its funding for the next 5 years, and we are very hopeful that Canada will also provide full funding so that this important institute which was founded by the vision of Lester Pearson and Lal Bahadur Shastri is able to fulfill its mandate. As for IC-IMPACTS, they define the new engagement between India and Canada, based on innovation, science and research. IC-IMPACTS is a research based partnership between India and Canada which has led to some exciting inventions through collaboration between Indian and Canadian scientists. One of these is a self healing road which has been successfully tested in Tumkur. Another is a bridge which monitors its own health and automatically sends alerts in case it needs repair and maintenance. IC-IMPACTS has also invented a technology whereby the First Nation community in Canada will get potable water without the need for boiling. Thus, it is truly having a positive impact on communities in both countries. Your job in Canada is of a high profile High Commissioner. How do you play this role in promoting Indo Canadian ties? I see my role essentially as a facilitator for greater connections between India and Canada. Despite our longstanding people-to-people ties, I find that there is still an information gap on the tremendous potential for fruitful partnerships in virtually every sector. It is beenvery easy for me to serve in Canada as we share so many things in common - we are both multicultural societies based on democracy, pluralism and the rule of law. We are two countries which

trulycherish diversity and recognize it as a strength. I think there is a compete meeting of minds between India and Canada on the major geopolitical issues as well which makes my job that much easier. And, of course, because we both speak the same language, there is nothing lost in translation! Is India doing enough to attract tourists from Canada to India and how is the air connectivity between the two countries? On this subject I must appreciate the role of Air Canada as it is providing direct air connectivity between the two countries. It provides direct flights from Toronto and Vancouver to New Delhi and Mumbai. I believe we need more connectivity between India and Canada for business and tourism to flourish. I am also very hopeful that more and more Canadian tourists will visit India to explore the world famous tourist attractions that India is well known for. Security cooperation between India and Canada has also been increasing. How do you see the future? Yes, our partnership on security, counter-terrorism and combating violent extremism is making good progress. The National Security Advisors of the two countries met in advance of Prime Minister Trudeauâ€™s visit to India and have issued a Framework for cooperation on countering terrorism and violent extremism. Both the Framework as well as the Joint Statement clearly show the joint resolve of both countries in deepening their security cooperation and focussing on practical measures for this purpose. Both sides are also categorical that no country should allow its territory to be used for terrorist and violent extremist activities. So, India and Canada are clearly on the same page in countering terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization to violence.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Lead Story

India-Canada Ties on an Upswing By Anirudh Bhattacharyya and Nayanima Basu

Over 100,000 Indians students are in Canada, contributing over $ 5 billion to the economy; Indian professionals are benefiting from Canada’s Global Skills Strategy and tourist arrivals from India are at a record high. counter-terrorism, as well as exchange of views on global and regional issues of mutual interest, will form important components of the visit, the ministry said. “The visit is aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries in key areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, energy, science and innovation, higher education, infrastructure development, skill development and space,” the statement said. Strong people-to-people contacts and presence of a large Indian diaspora in Canada provide a strong foundation for the relationship, the statement said.

The Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi meeting the Prime Minister of Canada, Mr. Justin Trudeau, on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit 2016, in Washington DC on April 01, 2016.

t the annual Diwali gala organised by the CanadaIndia Business Council (C-IBC) in Toronto in October, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said: “One of the reasons we are such good friends, Canada and India, is that we are the two largest democracies in the world – one by population and one by size.” Those words, he went on, were borrowed from a person with a facility for crafting lines – Mr. Vikas Swarup, author of the novel Q&A which became the basis for the multiple Academy Award-winning

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film Slumdog Millionaire. Mr. Swarup, of course, is also India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa. Canadian Prime Minister, Mr. Justin Trudeau will visit India from February 17-23 with the aim to strengthen bilateral strategic partnerships in key areas of counter-terrorism, energy and trade. He will visit Agra, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Mumbai and New Delhi. Mr. Trudeau will visit on the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Mr. Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Cooperation in security and

Kasi Rao, President and CEO of C-IBC, said prime ministerial visits “bring a great sense of movement, both in terms of confluence and in convergence.” In many ways, this has been a banner year for India-Canada relations. Over 100,000 Indians students are in Canada, contributing over $ 5 billion to the economy; Indian professionals, particularly technology workers, are benefiting from Canada’s Global Skills Strategy and an expedited permanent residency programme; and tourist arrivals are at a record high. High Commissioner Mr. Swarup said: “I have seen a huge interest on the part of Canada in building deeper ties with India whether it is in pension funds wanting to upscale their investments in India, or Canadian universities wanting to forge stronger links with

Lead Story

The then Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Mr. Justin Trudeau calls on the Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, in Toronto, Canada on April 16, 2015.

Indian institutions, or Canadian researchers and scientists wanting to explore partnerships with counterparts in India, and of course, the people-to-people level ties have always remained quite robust.” Nearly 1,000 Canadian companies now have operations in India. Rao said: “Clearly there’s a shift from

the Atlantic to the Indo-Pacific so we need to make sure that we’re not left behind. At the practical level, given the uncertainty we see in Europe and in North America, India and Canada can focus with a renewed sense of attention on this.” The Indian-origin population of over 1.75 million also acts as a

“living bridge”, he noted, and is one factor in making India an ideal partner for Canada in Asia, as Ottawa looks at diversifying beyond the US. But there remains the issue of resurgent pro-Khalistan groups and sentiment in Canada, The two sides have been in regular

A Canadian delegation led by the Minister of Natural Resources, Canada, Mr. James Gordon Carr in a meeting with the Minister of State for Development of North Eastern Region (I/C), Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, in New Delhi on September 07, 2016

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

A business delegation of Canada led by the Minister of Natural Resources, Canada, Mr. James Gordon Carr meeting the Minister of State for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Mines (Independent Charge), Mr. Piyush Goyal, in New Delhi on September 08, 2016. The Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Mr. Upendra Tripathy is also seen.

consultation on this important and sensitive issue. A high level delegation led by Dr. Arvind Gupta, Dy NSA had visited Canada in January 2017 and held discussions with top Canadian Intelligence Agencies on a wide range of counter terrorism issues. A meeting of the Joint Working

Group (JWG) on counter-terrorism between India-Canada was held on 21 February 2017. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Ravi Thappar, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs while the Canadian side was led by Mr. David Drake, DG, Counter Terrorism, Crime and Intelligence GAC. The latest meeting of JWG

was held in New Delhi on 5-6 February 2018. The visit of three Canadian ministers to a technology summit in India in November has “led to a very positive momentum, we are on each other’s radars and the plan now is to take it to the next level,” Swarup said. That, of course, is the Trudeau visit as the principals can then meet to turn burgeoning interest into tangible results. Canadian PM Trudeau to visit India from Feb 17-23 The much-awaited visit to India by Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau will take place during February 17-23. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit there in April 2015, a lot of high-level visits under the Trudeau administration have been happening at a regular pace. The single biggest focus of the administration was to secure business and trade ties with India, which have been moving at a slackening pace, sources told Business Line.

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry (Independent Charge) of India, Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman with the Trade Minister of Canada, Ms. Chrystia Freeland, in Toronto, Canada on September 29, 2016.

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During his last visit to India in November, Canada’s Minister for International Trade François-

Lead Story Both sides have also been sparring over whether to conclude the FIPPA together with the CEPA or individually. However, it seems that these pacts will now be concluded separately even as India and Canada have decided to fast-track the talks on CEPA as both governments will be facing elections in 2019. Canada has expressed concern over Indiaâ€™s model on Bilateral Investment Treaties, especially with the provision of Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) mechanism, which lays down that a foreign investor cannot go for international arbitration without exhausting all domestic options. A Canadian delegation led by Ms. Bardish Chagger, Government House Leader and Minister of Small Business and Tourism of Canada, meeting the Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananth Kumar, in New Delhi on March 28, 2017. The Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. S.S. Ahluwalia is also seen.

Philippe Champagne had told Business Line in an interview that the negotiations on the FIPPA are almost complete and it is ready to be signed. Champagne, who had brought with him the biggest ever business delegation to explore investment opportunities here, had said that

Canadian investors are finding it difficult to invest here in the absence of an FIPPA. Canada is also keen to expedite talks on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which is being negotiated for almost a decade and has missed several deadlines for conclusion.

The two countries are also expected to take their defence ties to the next level during the visit. Earlier this year, Canadaâ€™s Defence Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan had said that Canadian defence firms are looking to expand in India. Both sides had also discussed the possibility of setting up a joint working group on counterterrorism and enhancing naval linkages. Source: Hindustan Times and BusinessLine

The Minister of National Defence, Canada, Mr. Harjit Singh Sajjan reviewing the Tri-Services Guard of Honour, in New Delhi on April 18, 2017

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Lead Story

Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Positive on Canada-India Business Ties

Address by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the CIBC dinner event on October 17 2017 more prosperous and peaceful world, that's when I know we're on the right track. Diwali feels especially meaningful this year, on the 150th anniversary of Confederation, and on the 35th anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms; a document that enshrines the fact that Canada, unlike just about any other country in the world, but India perhaps comes as a close second, is a place where we understand that diversity can and must

Prime Minister Trudeau delivers remarks at the Baisakhi Celebration on the Parliament Hill

hank you Kasi for that warm welcome. I know the High Commissioner is not here tonight, but heâ€Ś and I'm going to happily steal one of his favourite lines in talking about Canada and India: one of the reasons we are such good friends, Canada and India, is that we are the two largest democracies in the world. One by population, and one by size. And I think that pulls us together tremendously right. I want to begin by thanking all of you from the Canada-India Business Council, all its directors, all its members and staff, for bringing us all together this evening. I'd also like to acknowledge one of my colleagues and friends who is here with me tonight, Canada's Minister of International Trade, FranĂ§ois Philippe Champagne. Thank you again for welcoming us both here on this very special evening. These are events that I'm always happy to be part of, because the central message of Diwali is a message I think more people need to hear. We

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Impressing all of Canada and swaying India in one go, PM Trudeau turned up in a purple kurta pajama. First Sunday following Aug 15, Canada celebrated India Day Unity Parade in Montreal and it was a surreal sight, mostly because thereâ€™s no one like Justin Trudeau.

need to be reminded that light can and will triumph over darkness. That knowledge and hope are powerful and effective ways to counteract ignorance and despair. And that at the end of the day, evil doesn't stand a chance when it's up against all the good in the world. It's so easy to be cynical, the news cycle encourages it, and sadly so do some politicians. But I believe that when people come together for celebrations like this one, people of diverse communities all working towards building a

be a source of strength, never a source of weakness. As Kasi pointed out, it's also a significant year for India, which celebrated its 70th year of independence just a few months ago. And this past July, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir marked its 10th anniversary at an event I had the pleasure of attending. For many people, arriving in Canada through our largest airport, that magnificent building is one of the very first sights they see. How appropriate. I think it speaks volumes about Canada, and about its incredibly strong and vibrant Indo-Canadian community.

Lead Story And now, thanks to the joint efforts of Canada Post and India Post, and the two new stamps that celebrate Diwali, people around the world will be able to see how important the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain faiths are to Canada. The contributions that these communities make, that the more than one million Canadians of Indian origin make, are seen everywhere; in our colleges and universities, in our hospitals and in our courtrooms, in cultural industries like music and film; with some Bollywood blockbusters being filmed right here in Canada. Even in sports â€“ and I'm not just talking about the Punjabi edition of Hockey Night in Canada. The ties that bind Indo-Canadians, their friends and neighbours, including in my own riding of Papineau, make our cities, large

the various occasions we've had to speak and spend time together. We've shared many priorities. Both countries want to protect and improve our strong democratic traditions. In Delhi as in Ottawa, finding ways to strengthen and grow the middle class is a constant priority. And as you know, one of the best ways to do that is to expand trade and investment. That's why we're continuing to work hard on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, and the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. Because we know that progressive trade deals can create more good, well-paying middle class jobs for

Canada Post and India Post Mark Diwali, Festival of Lights

and small, more pleasant, dynamic and exciting places to live. Naturally, we can see that you also make significant contributions to the business community as well. As entrepreneurs and business leaders, you are helping strengthen Canada's connections to India. And it couldn't come at a more important time. As countries around the world turn inward, as they fuel skepticism about trade agreements and grow more anxious about their borders, there's an opportunity for Canada and India to forge an even stronger relationship. One that will benefit the citizens of both our countries. That's a point I've made many times to Prime Minister Modi on

and I introduced FranĂ§ois Philippe earlier, that in mid-November he will be joined by our Transport Minister Marc Garneau and our Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, NavdeepBains, who, together, will head up a business delegation to the tech summit in Delhi. It will be a chance to showcase our expertise, your expertise, to business and political leaders, and I'm confident that it will lead to many productive partnerships down the road. We're already well on our way. There are more than 400 Canadian businesses in India, and over a thousand are actively looking to enter the Indian market. Our bilateral merchandise trade reached nearly $8 billion last

Number of Indian students in Canada crosses 100,000

Canadian workers and Indian workers. Done properly, these agreements can also create the conditions for things like better labour standards, greater gender equity, responsible management of natural resources, and stronger environmental protections. Building stronger trade relationships between Canada and India has been a priority for our government since day one. Seven of our ministers have visited India in the last two years, and we're gearing up for another ministerial trip in just two weeks. Happy to announce,

year, our respective GDPs keep growing, opportunities are better than ever. Before I finish, I want to once again thank the Canada-India Business Council for bringing all of us together tonight. Canada and India have a long history together, and I believe that an even brighter future lies ahead. I hope you will continue to work hard to help businesses in Canada and India form stronger partnerships, because I promise you, our government will do the same. Source: Canada-India Business Council

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Feature Story

Indian Diaspora: A Unique Global Asset By Pragit Parameswaran*

hen Saddam Hussein’s Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait in 1990, Mathunny Mathews better known as Toyota Sunny stepped in as ‘Messiah Mathews’. Sunny’s immense contribution played a crucial role of saving 1,70,000 Indians from the Kuwait war in 488 flights. Indian Diaspora in 2017 witnessed a biggest loss when Bollywood flick ‘Airlift’ inspired hero Toyota Sunny died. There are many more Non Resident Indians (NRI) who make

prosecutors, Indian authors, Indian businessmen and Indian émigrés rose through the ranks across the globe. The nation boasts of largest ‘diaspora’ in the world with more than 30 million persons of Indian origin living abroad. The crowd represents just 1 percent of the India’s population but it is crucial cog that the NRI pool contributes 3.4 percent of India’s GDP. A World Bank report released last year said, India was the largest remittance-receiving country in

Indian-origin Official Mr. J.Y. Pillay Appointed Singapore's Acting President

India proud at different junctures of the country’s journey.

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India’s diaspora is considered to be skilled, educated and wealthy. Further, the proportion of highlyskilled Indian migrants has increased considerably over the past decade as the globalisation of trade, capital, and labour has taken hold. A diaspora estimated at over 30 million people fills mainstream roles and responsibilities in their adopted countries, helping shape the destiny of these countries. The President of Singapore, Governor-

Sir Anand Satyanand Governor-General of New Zealand

General of New Zealand and Prime Ministers of Mauritius and Trinidad and Tobago were all of Indian descent.

From Google CEO Sundar Pichai to nobel laurete scientist Har Gobind Khorana and Microsoft CEO Sathya Nadella to world’s one among the leading music conductors Zubin Mehta, the list of NRIs and their contribution to the world goes endlessly. What we see today is Indians in all walks of life. We have Indian filmmakers, Indian lawyers, Indian

the world, with an estimated $69 billion in 2015.

Mr. Sundar Pichai, is an Indian American business executive Google CEO

Between 1995 and 2005, over a quarter of immigrant-founded engineering and IT companies in the United States were started by Indians, according to a study by Duke University and the University of California. And Indian expats owned an estimated 35 per cent of the country's hotels.

Feature Story

External Affairs Minister of India, Mrs. Sushma Swaraj, Minister of State of External Affairs and Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship of India, Mr. V.K. Singh witness the signing of MOU between MEA and MSDE for implementation of the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY), in New Delhi

According to the 2000 U.S. census, Indians had median annual earnings of $51,000, compared to $32,000 for Americans overall. About 64 per cent of Indian-Americans have a bachelor's degree or more, compared to 28 per cent of Americans overall, and 44 per cent for all Asian-American groups. Almost 40 per cent have a master's, doctorate or other professional degrees, five times the national average. When people of Indian origin are held in high esteem, respect for and understanding of the country go up. The influential Indian diaspora affects not just the popular attitude, but also government policies in countries where they live, to the benefit of India. India benefits tremendously through these people in luring large multinational companies as well as entrepreneurial ventures. The government’s emphasis on domestic transformation continued to gain acceleration with the India’s foreign policy strategy. The Diaspora population bring technical and domain expertise to domestic startups and often act as angel investors. Diaspora Indian faculty abroad volunteer time and resources to help faculty

on Indian campuses improve the quality of education — as in the case of member institutions of the Indo Universal Collaboration of Engineering Education. This was reflected in advancing projects whether through government arrangements or private commercial deals related to Make in India, Skill India, Digital India, Start Up India as well as those aimed at improving our infrastructure and transportation links and fostering all round sustainable development in urban or energy sectors. Pravasi-friendly Policies The government continued to accord high priority for safeguarding the biggest asset, NRIs with a slew of initiatives and policies. The Ministry continued to improve the institutional framework towards ensuring a safe, orderly, legal and humane migration process. One of the priority areas was to strengthen the eco-system that supports migrant workers in all stages of migration cycle – pre-departure, in countries of destination, as well as on return. New initiatives were launched towards skills upgradation and certification of vocational skills of Indian emigrant workers.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 2 July 2016, between the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) for implementation of the Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY). The National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC) is in process of setting up customized India International Skill Centres to operationalize this Scheme. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra or overseas Indian Centre in New Delhi and dedicated it to the Indian diaspora. The Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra has been established to commemorate the trials and tribulations, as well as the subsequent evolution and achievements of the diverse Indian diaspora. Commemorating the return India’s one of the greatest Pravasis, Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India, the nation also celebrates Pravasi Bharatiya Divas during which the contributions of Indian Diaspora is acknowledged by the country. *The author has worked for several Newspapers and News Organizations. Presently working as a media consultant.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

News in Photos

India-Canada: Bilateral Engagements

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre along with the Indian delegation participating in the â€˜UN Peacekeeping Defence Ministerial: Vancouver 2017â€™, at Vancouver, Canada on November 14, 2017.

The High Commissioner of Canada to India, Mr. Nadir Patel, Filmmaker, Writer & Director Atom Egoyan at a Press Conference, during the 48th International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2017), in Panaji, Goa on November 27, 2017. The Film Festival Director, Mr. Sunit Tandon is also seen

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The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre meeting the Canadian Defence Minister, Mr. Harjit Singh Sajjan, at Vancouver, Canada on November 14, 2017.

News in Photos

The Minister of International Trade, Canada, Mr. Francois Philippe Champagne and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Mr. Navdeep Singh Bains call on the Indian Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Mr. Arun Jaitley, in New Delhi on November 13, 2017.

The Indian Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Mr. Nitin Gadkari with the Minister of Transport, Canada, Mr. Marc Garneau, in New Delhi on November 14, 2017.

The Indian Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences and Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Harsh Vardhan and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Mr. Navdeep Singh Bains at the inauguration of the India-Canada Technology Summit, in New Delhi on November 14, 2017. The Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Prof. Ashutosh Sharma and other dignitaries are also seen.

The Indian Minister for Commerce & Industry, Mr. Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu and the Minister for International Trade, Mr. Francois-Philippe Champagne during the 4th Annual India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment, in New Delhi on November 13, 2017. The Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution and Commerce & Industry, Mr. C.R. Chaudhary is also seen. Source: All Photos PIB

In dia-c an ada in Focus 2018

Bilateral Ties

Historic Trade Mission to India Unleashes New Partnerships between Indian and Canadian Businesses Source : Global Affairs, Canada a successful trade mission to India aimed at showcasing the Canadian talent and technologies shaping tomorrow’s economy. Some 120 representatives from more than 85 Canadian companies participated in the trade mission. More than 300 meetings in total were facilitated over the week to enhance Canada-India commercial relations. These included 200 business-tobusiness meetings surrounding India’s 23rd Technology Summit, held in New Delhi, as well as numerous high-level interactions with Indian ministers and chief ministers in five cities.

Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains, International Trade Minister François-Philippe Champagne and Transportation Minister Marc Garneau welcomed Canadian business delegation to India

he Government of Canada is committed to diversifying trade markets to ensure future growth and prosperity for Canadians and Canadian businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). India is one of the world’s fastestgrowing economies and a vibrant market for Canadians seeking to grow their businesses into the

India-ca na da in Fo c u s 20 18

Asia-Pacific region and create wellpaying jobs at home. T h e H o n o u r a b l e Fr a n ç o i s Philippe Champagne, Minister o f I n t e r n a t i o n a l Tr a d e , t h e Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport concluded

During their mission, the ministers opened doors for Canadian businesses of all sizes seeking to partner with Indian companies and helped to support growth opportunities in a variety of fields, including advanced manufacturing, transportation, health, technology and the digital economy. The ministers highlighted the government’s commitment to diversity and the untapped potential of Canada’s people-to-people ties by engaging with Canadian and Indian female business leaders and smallbusiness owners. Canada and India have much in common and continue to have well-established partnerships in many areas. Strengthening relations between Canada and India helps foreign investors partner with innovative Canadian firms and contributes to the growth of the middle class through new jobs and business opportunities.

Bilateral Ties Quick Facts

From left: Mr Sarvesh, Navdeep Bains and Dr Elhabiby: Mr. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Government of Canada, attended the CII Tech Summit in Delhi

Quotes “India is a vibrant market that offers boundless opportunities for Canadian companies looking to diversify into the Asia-Pacific region. This historic trade mission to India allowed Canadian companies to share their expertise and take advantage of multiple networking and partnership development opportunities. By deepening Canada’s trade and investment ties with India, we are helping our businesses succeed in creating more jobs, prospects and growth for our middle class.” - François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade “Canada and India share values that are the very foundation of successful trading relationships. Our mutual appreciation for a diverse and inclusive economy will facilitate growth and prosperity for our respective countries. Supporting innovation and strengthening our relationships with global partners will diversify markets, expand industries and promote investment. Canada is home to a strong, hardworking and diversified labour force. Fuelling innovation and encouraging global investment in Canada are important steps that will create more jobs and grow our middle class.” - Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development “When it comes to innovation, Canada and India are not only world leaders, but also ideal trading partners. Modern trends in technology and in society are changing how people and goods travel. This week, I witnessed first-hand how shared best practices, collaborative ideas and cooperation on transportation issues will help Canadian companies enhance private sector opportunities in India. Ultimately, this will improve lives and allow Canada to trade more efficiently with our international partners.” - Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport

• While in India, the travel itineraries of ministers Bains, Champagne and Garneau included Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi and Pune. • Minister Bains was the first Canadian Federal Minister ever to make an official visit to the city of Pune. Sometimes referred to as “the Oxford of the East” for its role as a major education hub, Pune is also recognized for its auto manufacturing industries and its emerging position as a technology hub. • During his visit to India, Minister Champagne visited four cities and announced this year’s recipients of the Canadian International Innovation Program—a funding program offered by Global Affairs Canada designed to support Canadian SMEs undertaking bilateral research and development projects. • While in India, Minister Garneau signed the extension of the CanadaIndia memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation in road transportation. The updated MOU covers cooperation in road transportation and intelligent transportation systems and creates opportunities for Canadian companies in India. • Recognizing the significance of the Indian market, Canada has been increasing its trade support network, which now includes close to 50 trade commissioners in eight different locations. • In 2016, merchandise trade between Canada and India was valued at $8 billion.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Sponsored Content

First of a Kind Commercial Demonstration of Douglas Fir Glue Laminated Beams at CEPT Centre of Excellence Workshop – The building also showcases varied B.C. wood species in other structural and interior applications –

hmedabad, 17 January 2018: British Columbia (B.C.), Canada’s wood product technology and building expertise is now being used in a new building built at the CEPT

University, Ahmedabad. This is a result of a MOU signed between Forestry Innovation Consulting India (FII India) and CEPT University in 2016 wherein FII India provided the University with 56

cubic meters of wood to build the workshop. Additionally, FII India’s support on technical assistance and procurement support went a long way in making this vision a reality. Named as the “Centre of

Dr. Bimal Patel, President – CEPT University and Tim Sheldan, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations, and Rural Development, British Columbia (centre) with a delegation of B.C. Lumber companies at the CEPT University workshop.

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Tim Sheldan, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations, and Rural Development, British Columbia addresses the audience at the CEPT University workshop.

Excellence Workshop”, the building spread across 13,000 sq. ft. houses workshops for students of architecture and design across seven disciplines. The workshop extensively uses Douglas-fir, western hemlock

and yellow-cedar. It is arguably one of India’s first large-scale commercial demonstration of long-spanned 28 cubic meters of Douglas-fir glued laminated beams. The successful introduction of Douglas-fir glue laminated beams

(glulam), a product not previously used in India was made to order for CEPT. Specifically 33 glulam arches, each 11 metres in length were shipped from B.C. and installed by a local builder. Each beam had to be individually unpacked from its container by crane, stored on site, prepared and installed in sequence as roof arches via on site crane. This innovative wood technology uses timber that is joined together end-to-end, then glued together in laminations using waterproof, state-of-the-art adhesives, creating nearly unbounded possible beam depths and lengths in curved and straight configurations. Dr. Bimal Patel, President – CEPT University said, “CEPT

33 Douglas-fir glue laminated beams (glulam) arches, each 11 metres in length

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Exterior view of the CEPT University workshop featuring 33 Douglas-fir glue laminated beams (glulam) arches

emphasises the method of learning by making. For our students, this building provides a very good example of the innovative and sustainable use of materials. We will continue to explore new ways of using wood for our future projects.” Designed by Gurdev Singh, Principal Architect says, “We started with a brief of making a place which inspires students to explore. It became essential for us to introduce new materials and technology. To us there was no better sustainable material as timber combined with the glulam technology.” Ahmedabad, 17 January 2018: British Columbia (B.C.), Canada’s wood product technology and building expertise is now being used in a new building built at the CEPT University, Ahmedabad. This is a result of a MOU signed

India-ca na da in Fo c u s 20 18

between Forestry Innovation Consulting India (FII India) and CEPT University in 2016 wherein FII India provided the University with 56 cubic meters of wood to build the workshop. Additionally, FII India’s support on technical assistance and procurement support went a long way in making this vision a reality. Named as the “Centre of Excellence Workshop”, the building spread across 13,000 sq.ft. houses workshops for students of architecture and design across seven disciplines. The workshop extensively uses Douglas-fir, western hemlock and yellow-cedar. It is arguably one of India’s first large-scale commercial demonstration of long-spanned 28 cubic meters of Douglas-fir glued laminated beams. The successful introduction of Douglas-fir glue laminated beams (glulam), a product not previously

used in India was made to order for CEPT. Specifically 33 glulam arches, each 11 metres in length were shipped from B.C. and installed by a local builder. Each beam had to be individually unpacked from its container by crane, stored onsite, prepared and installed in sequence as roof arches via onsite crane. This innovative wood technology uses timber that is joined together end-to-end, then glued together in laminations using waterproof, state-of-the-art adhesives, creating nearly unbounded possible beam depths and lengths in curved and straight configurations. Dr. Bimal Patel, President – CEPT University said, “CEPT emphasises the method of learning by making. For our students, this building provides a very good example of the innovative and sustainable use of materials. We will continue to explore new ways of using wood for our future projects.”

Sponsored Content Designed by Gurdev Singh, Principal Architect says, “We started with a brief of making a place which inspires students to explore. It became essential for us to introduce new materials and technology. To us there was no better sustainable material as timber combined with the glulam technology.” The workshop uses B.C. wood species in not only structural use but also in interiors. This encompasses structural and appearance elements such as furniture, beams, purlins, fascia, partitions, doors and door frames, window frames, trims, wall framing, false ceilings and wall panelling. Pranesh Chhibber, Country Director, FII India said, “Canada has over 10% of the world’s total forest cover with B.C. alone accounting for over 50% of Canada’s total lumber exports with zero deforestation over last two decades. This makes B.C. well positioned as a long

term reliable source. The CEPT Centre of Excellence Workshop is an outstanding example of how British Columbia’s innovative wood technology and materials can be used effectively in a building of this size. It demonstrates how innovative construction techniques are expanding opportunities for wood far beyond just interior woodworking. Douglas-fir and western hemlock are perfect for post & beam structures, prefabricated homes and even crosslaminated timber (CLT).” About Forestry Innovation Consulting Pvt Ltd - FII India FII India, funded by the government of British Columbia (B.C.), Canada represents “Canadian Wood” in India for all its five species viz. western hemlock, Douglas-fir, yellow cedar, western red cedar and spruce-pine-fir (SPF). FII works closely with architects, manufacturers, importers and real estate developers to provide technical

and procurement assistance for their requirements free of any cost. Website: www.canadianwood.in About CEPT University Established since 1962, CEPT University focuses on understanding, designing, planning, constructing and managing human habitats. Its teaching programs aim to build thoughtful professionals and its research programs deepen understanding of human settlements. CEPT University also undertakes advisory projects to further the goal of making habitats more liveable. Through its education, research and advisory activities, CEPT strive to improve the impact of habitat professions in enriching the lives of people in India's villages, towns and cities. Website: http://cept.ac.in/ For further information please contact Pragati Chavan Manager – Communications & Marketing, Canadian Wood pragati.chavan@bcfii.in

Spread across 13,000 sq.ft. the workshop features 56 cubic meters of western hemlock, yellow cedar and Douglas -fir

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Feature Story

India Carves a Unique Place in Space By K.V. Venkatasubramanian*

ore than 53 summers ago, India had successfully put its first signature on space by launching the US-made ‘Nike-Apache’ two-stage sounding rocket (the first rocket) from Kerala’s obscure fishing hamlet Thumba.

About 12 years later, in 1975, India launched its first-ever experimental satellite, Aryabhata, on a Russian rocket. Lacking infrastructure, scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Bangalore converted even a toilet into a data receiving centre.

There were no buildings at the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) on Thiruvananthapuram’s outskirts. The bishop's house doubled up as the Director’s office, the ancient St. Mary Magdalene church building became the control room and naked eyes tracked the smoke plume on November 21, 1963. Bullock carts and bicycles carried rocket parts and payloads to the launch pad.

From taking its first baby steps in Thumba, the Indian space odyssey has traversed numerous landmarks. ISRO has emerged as a key player in global satellite launches and the manufacturing industry. The nation has earned global recognition for launching lunar probes, built satellites, for others too, ferried foreign satellites up and even succeeded in reaching Mars.

PSLV C-32 carrying navigation satellite IRNSS-1F

Through these decades, India’s space programme has focused on national imperatives, and social and economic well-being of society— specifically in earth observation and application for management of natural resources in agriculture, water, fisheries, and watershed mapping and development. Space-based applications like teleeducation and tele-medicine have enabled greater access to rural population to these basic needs. Space exploration missions have surged ahead during the past three years. India’s latest communication satellite GSAT-17 on board an Ariane 5 rocket lifted off from French Guiana on June 28. It will strengthen ISRO’s current fleet of

17 operational telecom satellites and provide meteorological and satellite-based search and rescue services-earlier provided by the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT).

the way to send humans, one day, beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Now, Indian communication satellites can be lofted into space from within the country. So far, only the USA, Russia, Europe, China and Japan have launched space satellites weighing 4,000 kg and more.

In a boost to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to project India as a global low-cost provider of services in space, ISRO launched on June 23 the PSLV C38 carrying 712 kg Cartosat-2 satellite for earth observation and 30 other tiny satellites, several of them for European countries. This was PSLV’s 39th consecutively successful mission.

Earlier on May 5, India catapulted the first-ever South Asia Satellite (SAS) to boost communication and improve disaster links among its six neighbours-Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Following the launch of the 2,230-kg GSAT-9, built by ISRO and funded entirely by India, on board the GSLV-F09 rocket, the prime minister had said the "unprecedented" development sent out a message that "even sky is not the limit when it comes to regional cooperation".

India entered the big league of space technology on June 5 this year with the launch of its most powerful, homegrown and heaviest-ever rocket the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III (GSLV Mk-III D 1) carrying GSAT-19 communication satellite. The high-tech 3,136 kg workhorse established ISRO’s capability to transport four-tonne satellites and test a homegrown cryogenic engine, and also paved

In February, India scripted a new chapter in the history of space exploration and grabbed world headlines by hurling 104 satellites, a record, including the Cartosat-2 series satellite, in one mission aboard a Polar Satellite Launch A model of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle III

PSLV-C36 Resource SAT-2A

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Feature Story Vehicle (PSLV C-37). The rocket carried payloads from six different countries. The master stroke established India as the launch service provider for small satellites. These spectacular achievements have placed ISRO in a commanding position in the space race. The prime minister's soft spot for space and ISRO were reflected in a substantial 23 per cent increase in this yearâ€™s budget allocation for the Department of Space. In 2016, among the major achievements were the successful launching of the remote sensing satellite RESOURCESAT-2 in December, a record lobbing of 20 satellites in a single payload in June and three navigation satellites and the GSAT-18 communication satellite. I S R O h o i s t e d t h e G S AT- 1 5 communication satellite and the Multi Wavelength Space Observator ASTROSAT in 2015. It also ground tested the indigenously developed high thrust cryogenic rocket engine. Besides, five satellites were launched in July by PSLV and the IRNSS-1D, the fourth satellite

India-ca nada in Fo c u s 20 18

International Space Station

in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), in March. In December 2014, the communication satellite GSAT16 was launched. PSLV hoisted the country â€™s third navigation satellite IRNSS-1C in October and the second dedicated navigation satellite IRNSS-1B in April.

In the years ahead, ISRO scientists have a busy schedule. A series of satellite launches is in the works. In early 2018, the space agency will launch two lunar missions, Chandrayaan-2, an advanced version of Chandrayaan-1. The indigenous initiative comprises an orbiter, lander and rover,

Feature Story winds disturb the communication network and electronics on earth. Further, ISRO will return to Mars, probably during 2021-2022, with a second Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) spacecraft, Mangalyaan 2. Come September 24, India's first-ever interplanetary robotic probe, Mangalyaan 1, still going strong, will celebrate three years of landing on the Red Planet. India had created history by becoming the first nation to enter the Mars orbit on a maiden mission also the cheapest such mission till now. For the first time, India will have a date with Venus, beyond 2020. The Venusian oribiter mission will study the planet's atmosphere. Mangalyaan or Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), celebrated 1000 earth days in its orbit

which are expected to perform mineralogical and elemental studies of the lunar surface. The other is in collaboration with Team Indus, a group of space enthusiasts. The next grand project is the scientific mission to the Sun for

observing the solar corona (with a Coronagraph a telescope), photosphere, chromosphere (Sunâ€™ three main outer layers) and solar wind. To be launched by PSLV-XL by 2020, Aditya-L1 satellite will probe why solar flares and solar

*The author is an independent journalist and columnist, with four decades of experience in all media streams--print, online, radio and television. He writes on developmental issues.

Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station in Thiruvananthapuram, India

Bilateral Ties

India-Canada Partnerships Bearing Fruit Source: Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence (IC-IMPACTS)

Dr. Nemy Banthia and project partners in Thondebhavi on the day of the Ribbon Cutting ceremony

Roots of Collaboration In 2011, the Canadian federal government put out a call to create the first Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence (CIRCE). Dr. Nemukmar Banthia, civil engineering professor at the University of British Columbia (UBC) envisioned a partnership among Canadian and Indian universities with ties to the private and public sectors. Banthia grew up in India and has lived and taught in Canada for more than 25 years. He saw that the two nations shared similar pressing issues in the areas of water, infrastructure and public health. After consulting a wide range of stakeholders in both countries and taking the lead in producing the proposal, he won the federal funding. Based on that federal grant, the India-Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-IMPACTS) was founded in

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2012, with Banthia becoming its first CEO and Scientific Director. He has been leading initiatives to improve the lives of Canadians and Indians ever since. Since then, IC-IMPACTS has built international research and collaborative partnerships between India and Canada, including First Nations, that bring about real change to peopleâ€™s lives in both countries. The centre leads projects where researchers work closely with communities to identify problems related to water, infrastructure and public health, and to develop solutions that can be scaled up. Through these partnerships, new materials and technologies have been created, like self-repairing concrete for building roads and water treatment micro-plants for purifying water. By deepening IndiaCanada ties with local communities and industry, IC-IMPACTS seeks ways to improve the well-being of people in both nations, and to strengthen India-Canada trade.

New Road Sparks Real Change Unpaved roads in India can become nearly impassable, as well as mosquito-infested, during annual monsoon rains. This makes it risky and sometimes impossible for farmers to bring their crops to market and some people from even leaving their homes. At UBC, Banthia led the development of a unique concrete that could repair itself. The costsaving and eco-friendly material uses a by-product from the coal industry, fly-ash, which would otherwise go to waste. Stronger than traditional concrete, the new material uses less cement, which could radically lower the carbon footprint of the cement industry. It also yields thinner roads. The new material has the potential to make roads last as long as 15 years, with minimum maintenance. Through collaborations with Canadian and Indian partners and consultations with residents of a local village council, a half-

Road in Thondebhavi, before project start

kilometre road was built using the new concrete in the village of Thondebhavi in 2015. The new road has transformed life in the village. Local farmers can bring their produce to market, kids can walk to school, and women can commute to work. Ease of passage has fueled the local economy. As another benefit, the new road has reduced the risksâ€”like malariatransmitting mosquitosâ€”that come from a road that turns to muck during the monsoon season. Plans are in place to use the material for projects in India and Canada. The new concrete offers the potential of more stable, cost-effective infrastructure and opportunities for business partnerships between India and Canada. A Vision of Clean Water for All An estimated 1.1 billion people in the world lack access to clean water (according to World Health Organization estimates). Over 5 million Canadians, many of whom live in rural or First Nations communities, lack access to a reliable source. And waterborne

infections account for 80 percent of all infectious diseases in the world. A joint call for proposals is being developed between IC-IMPACTS and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in India that tackles the problem of polluted drinking water. The call for proposals focuses on cleaning a stretch of Ganga using solutions that can be scaled up to other large river systems in Canada, including First Nations. The project could save millions of lives, but could also create major economic benefits to Canadian and Indian industries. Projects will be funded by IC-IMPACTS in Canada, and by DBT in India. Successful projects will lower health risks with the use, for instance, of technologies that monitor and detect waterborne diseases in community members, and better public awareness and education of local communities on dealing with water pollutants. Projects will show how any knowledge gained can be passed on to locations in Canada that have similarly polluted waterways.

The proposed technology or solution is expected to be of high value to preserve nature and protect communities in India and Canada. Endorsement for Future Ties On November 14, 2017, at the Tech Summit in New Delhi, representatives from the Canadian and Indian governments jointly announced a funding extension of $8.1 million each over three years to IC-IMPACTS. On January 10, 2018, India's Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NSERC Canada for cooperation in the field of Science & Technology. With endorsement from both governments and a track record of successful projects, IC-IMPACTS will continue to build strong IndiaCanada research collaborations, knowledge sharing, training opportunities, and industrial partnerships. IC-IMPACTS will continue to develop solutions to real-world problems that make a positive difference to people living in both nations.

In d ia -c a nproject a d a in Focus Road in Thondebhavi, after completion 2018

Bilateral Ties

Canada and India’s Relationship Strengthened by People-to-People Ties today spent time at cultural and religious sites of significance to people in Canada, India, and around the world. Prime Minister Trudeau visited the Gandhi Ashram, Mahatma Gandhi’s former residence and the starting point for the Salt March, a major protest in 1930 that played a significant role in India’s independence movement. He also visited the Akshardham Temple, one of India’s largest Hindu temples. The Prime Minister will spend time at other sites of similar importance later this week, including the Golden Temple, a place of religious significance to Sikhs, the Jama Masjid Mosque, the largest mosque in India, and the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Delhi’s largest Catholic church. The Prime Minister’s visits to these sites highlight how both Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on February 17, 2018 emplanes for India with family

anada and India enjoy a close relationship that is based on similar institutions and forms of government, and a shared commitment to pluralism, diversity, and democracy. Our friendship is bolstered by strong people-to-people and cultural ties, and a long history of cooperation in a range of areas, including education. As part of his official visit to India, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau,

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A high point for the High Commissioner (H.E. Mr. Vikas Swarup) to receive the Prime Minister of Canada on Indian soil. Aparna and I were delighted to welcome Prime Minister.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with wife and children visit the Taj Mahal in Agra on February 18, 2018

Prime Minister Trudeau meets Maharashtra's Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai on February 20, 2018

“These holy sites are of great significance to Indians and people of faith from around the world, including many Canadians. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to visit them, and look forward to the rest of the trip as an opportunity to deepen the already strong Canada-India friendship.” – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick facts India is Canada’s second largest source of immigrants (approximately 40,000 in 2016). India is also Canada’s 10th largest source of tourists and international visitors, with 224,000 visits made from India to Canada in 2016. An estimated 124,000 students from India held a permit to study in Canada for six months or more in 2017. Canada is the second most popular destination for Indian students going abroad for higher education.

Prime Minister Trudeau meets Gujarat's Chief Minister Mr. Vijay Rupani on February 19, 2018

Canadian universities and colleges are also very active in India, and there are currently over 400 agreements between institutions in both our countries. and India gain strength from their commitment to diversity and pluralism. They also build on the already strong people-to-people ties enjoyed by our two countries.

Prime Minister Trudeau and his family at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on February 19, 2018

Canada is home to a vibrant Indian diaspora, with approximately 1.4 million Canadians of Indian heritage. The Indo-Canadian community makes significant contributions to Canadian society in a range of areas, including business, arts and culture, health care and medicine, public

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Bilateral Ties “Canada and India both embrace education as one of the most important pathways to success. It is essential to both our countries that our students and institutions have access to the tools and resources they need to be competitive on the world stage. I thank the students from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad for a great discussion on how education and innovation can help us build a more prosperous future.” — Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

"We celebrated stronger ties and new co-production opportunities between Bollywood and the Canadian film industry", PM Trudeau after meeting stars from Indian film industry in Mumbai on February 20, 2018.

service, journalism, advocacy, and philanthropy.

Prime Minister Trudeau meets Punjab's Chief Minister Capt. Amarinder Singh on February 21, 2018

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his wife Sophie Gregoire, daughter Ella Grace and son Xavier pose for photographers during their visit to the holy Sikh shrine of Golden Temple in Amritsar, India February 21, 2018

Our people-to-people ties are deepened through a shared focus on the importance of excellence in education. The Prime Minister highlighted that common priority today while speaking to students and participating in a question and answer session at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. The Institute has student exchange programs with Canadian universities, including McGill University, the University of British Columbia and its Sauder School of Business, as well as the Schulich School of Business at York University. These exchange programs demonstrate the close connections enjoyed between educational institutions in our two countries.

Bilateral Ties

New Market Access Programme will Introduce Indian and Canadian Female Founders to New Opportunities

new programme will allow female startup founders to have the opportunity to engage with the Zone Startups global accelerator programme

Development Canada, as well as India’s Department of Science and Technology. “Canadian founders are some of the most well-rounded and

The announcement was made by Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Navdeep Bains, members of the Indian Department

Photo: From left: Raj Grewal, MP; Ajay Ramasubramaniam, Director Zone Startups; Mohamed Lachemi, Ryerson University President; Ashish Chauhan, CEO stock exchange; Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Mr. Navdeeps Bains; Matt Saunders, Ryerson Futures; Dr. Anita Gupta, Indian Department Science and Technology; Kamal Khera MP; External, ‑Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe, All India Council for Technical Education and Ambarish Datta, Bombay Stock Exchange Institute

and be selected to participate in an international market access programme later this year. The initiative is a result of a partnership b e t w e e n R y e r s o n Fu t u r e s , the Canadian government’s Innovation, Science, and Economic

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ambitious in the world,” says Matt Saunders, President of Ryerson Futures and Zone Startups. “We’re excited to be able to expand our programming and support for these startups as they grow and thrive in a new market.”

of Science and Technology, along with representatives of Ryerson Futures and Zone Startups India. The collaboration further fosters the relationship between Canada and India to create an active, global startup community.

Bilateral Ties

The Canadian government is investing $500,000 towards a programme that helps Indian and Canadian women entrepreneurs expand into new markets.

“Innovation is about finding solutions, and great ideas can come from anywhere and anyone,” says Minister Bains. “We cannot ignore half of our world’s population as we strive to find solutions to the problems of today and create the jobs of tomorrow. Canadian companies are increasingly exploring India as a destination for investment and we are proud to participate in a partnership that will help even more startups expand beyond Canada’s borders.” The programme’s launch follows the success of Zone Startups India’s Next Big Idea Contest, which saw more than 40 founders over the last five years travel to Canada to make valuable connections as part of their expansion into the North American market. The Canadian and Indian governments allotted a combined $1 million to the project, with the goal of engaging with 100 companies from Canada and India over the next two years.

“The Department of Science and Technology with the Government of India is pleased to partner with the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Canada to accelerate innovation, value chain, and technology commercialization through initiatives having special focus on women entrepreneurs of both our countries,” said Dr. Anita Gupta, Advisor and Associate Head of the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board, with the Government of India’s Department of Science and Technology. “Such a bilateral engagement facilitated by key stakeholders, government, accelerators, incubators, and companies aims to lead ways for the better economic and social development of both countries.” Female founders who have demonstrated traction and ability to scale in their respective markets and are looking for international expansion will be chosen and have

the opportunity to participate this multi-year market access programme. Canadian founders will travel to India, with Indian founders travelling to Canada, to meet with customers and investors, and receive hands-on strategic and tactical guidance in both locations. “Ryerson University is pleased to support the objectives of the federal government and be the bridge to international markets such as India for young Canadian entrepreneurs,” says Dr. Mohamed Lachemi, President of Ryerson University. “As home to the DMZ, ranked the third best universitybased incubator in the world, we have the experience and expertise to educate and train young innovators for success in India, Canada and elsewhere. The focus in today’s announcement on women entrepreneurs acknowledges the importance of inclusivity in our future prosperity.

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Bilateral Ties

A Canadian Project, Inspired by India Amarjeet Sohi, Canada's Minister of Indian origin, talks about Smart City challenge

marjeet Sohi, Canada’s Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, on Tuesday spoke of his country’s Smart City Challenge, something that has been inspired by India, from where he migrated in 1981. “IT companies are of particular interest. We want to see how we can help with Smart City challenges of major urban centres. Problems of transportation, social laws, etc. If we partner, we can find innovative solutions to these issues. The way the challenges work is we call municipalities to identify

problems and then technology is used to solve these problems. We then fund viable projects. This is something that is inspired by Indian Smart City challenges,” Mr. Sohi said. The Minister in Justin Trudeau’s Cabinet was delivering the keynote address at the CanadaIndia Mumbai Business Forum in the city on Tuesday. “Economic growth is top on the agenda of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Growth that helps everyone as businesses and individuals. The same values are also shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.

“Each time I come to India, it gives me an opportunity to reflect on the time when I was a young man and went to Canada and built my life there,” said Mr. Sohi, a Sikh who was born in 1964, in Sangrur district of Punjab. Mr. Sohi explained that Canada’s Smart Cities Challenge aims to find the city that possesses the boldest, most experimental, inclusive, empowering, and digitally transformative ideas in the country. “As a former city councillor, I know first-hand that local leadership understands best what their communities need,”

High Commissioner Mr. Vikas Swarup welcoming the Canadian delegation members on the India visit. Ministers Sohi Amarjeet, Bardish KW and Kirsty Duncan MP on arrival in New Delhi.

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Bilateral Ties

the minister said. â€œWhen talented people come together in pursuit of a common goal, they can come

up with inspired solutions that will have a real and tangible impact. We are calling on everyone to step up

and give us their best ideas on how technology can make our cities even better places to live.â€?

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Bilateral Ties

Media Fulfils the Duty of Pointing out the Government’s Wrongs, Says Canadian PM Justin Trudeau

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had in interaction with students of Institute of Management in Ahmedabad (Gujarat). The media town hall was conducted by Shereen Bhan, Managing Editor of CNBC-TV18.

peaking at an event at Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad (Gujarat), PM Trudeau said he was open to boosting trade with India. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is in India on a weeklong visit, on February 19 stressed on the need for an independent media, calling it “a must for a successful democracy ”. While he admitted to finding the media frustrating at times, he said it was essential to empower and support it, The Indian Express reported. “The media fulfils an important duty of telling the government what it’s doing wrong,” Trudeau said at

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an event at the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad. “An independent media is essential for a successful democracy.” At the IIM-Ahmedabad event, Trudeau also spoke about feminism and women’s rights. “If you think men and women should get equal opportunities, you are a feminist, it is that simple,” the Canadian leader said. “Any comments about how a man looks isn’t even an eyelash worth of the systemic discrimination women face. As a man in business and politics, I had lots of advantage. But I didn’t go near the discrimination, sexism, superficiality and judgement that women go through daily.”

On Canada’s relations with India, Trudeau said his country was open to boost immigration and trade. “India-Canada trade has the potential to grow,” he said, adding that he wanted trade deals that benefit both the countries, especially small enterprises, the Business Standard reported. He also urged countries “to do more to welcome immigrants not because that is the right thing to do, because refugees who flee the persecution in their country for a better life in another are extremely grateful to the country that welcomes them”.

Carleton University

ituated on a beautiful campus bordered by the sparkling Rideau River and Canal, Carleton is just minutes from the heart of our nation’s government and enjoys easy access to the many organizations, associations and businesses which thrive in Ottawa. Many of Ontario’s leading high-tech companies surround our campus where cutting-edge research joins with highly innovative teaching to solve real-life problems. Members of a dynamic, research-intensive university, Carleton’s faculty and staff provide a superior learning experience for our fine students who hail from every province and from over 100 countries around the world. • Founded in 1942 • Situated on 62 hectares just south of Ottawa’s city centre. Bordered by the Rideau River, the historic Rideau Canal,

• •

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and pleasant residential neighborhoods Five kilometers of underground tunnels conveniently link the university’s buildings Total Students: 29,573 – Graduate Students: 4,043, Undergraduate Students: 25,530 Faculty Members: 878, Staff: 1,085, Alumni: 140,000 Research Funding: ~$70M Carleton’s international student population has increased by 50% over five years (20102016)

Canada-India Centre for Excellence Carleton is home to the CanadaIndia Centre for Excellence (CICE). The centre represents Carleton’s special connection to India. CICE has been at the leading-edge of the bilateral relationship – undertaking policy-relevant research and

developing and delivering capacitybuilding programs for Indians and Canadians. CICE has initiated several programs to support key initiatives launched by the Government of India, namely Skills India, Startup India, and Smart Cities Mission. Currently, programs are offered in cybersecurity, food security, water and sanitation, terrorism and international security, entrepreneurship, among others. CICE is also focused on developing innovative solutions to major challenges, such as climate change and urban infrastructure renewal, that affect both countries. For example, CICE’s SmartCities Navigator brings together Canadian and Indian expertise to promote trade and technology transfer for urban renewal. For more information, please visit Carleton.ca/india.

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Bilateral Ties

Strengthening of Canada-India Commercial Relationship India is the world’s fastest growing major economy, and Canada’s relationship with India offers tremendous opportunities for increased business-to-business and people-to-people collaboration that will bolster our shared prosperity.

n February 20, 2018 , the Prime Minister Mr. Justin Trudeau announced commitments from businesses which will lead to the creation of more than 5,800 good, well-paying middle class jobs for Canadians. Canadian and Indian companies signed 66 new commercial contracts and agreements – worth more than $1 billion – which will help grow both our economies. They also demonstrate the scope of connections between the Canadian and Indian businesses and cover a wide variety of commercial sectors, including infrastructure, information technology, aerospace, clean technology, film production, and research and development. Indian companies invest in Canada Indian companies will invest close to $250 million in Canada, which will create more than 5,800 good, well-paying jobs middle class jobs for Canadians. These investments include: Tech Mahindra, a leading provider of digital transformation, consulting and business re-engineering services and solutions, will announce a strategic partnership and investment in Canada on February 22. This partnership is key to the Government of Canada’s Super clusters initiative. It will pave the way for Canadians and Indians to access cuttingedge future technologies, while creating a niche talent pool and job opportunities in next generation technology areas. Tech Mahindra is committed to its continued expansion in Canada. As a global company present in 45 countries, Tata Consultancy Services is a significant employer in Canada and has been investing in the Canadian

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marketplace for more than 25 years. A strategic partner to top Canadian businesses, the company will continue to grow its existing operations in Canada. Infosys, a global leader in consulting, technology, and next-generation services. That operates in 45 countries, will prioritize Canada as a place to increase its investment in the local market and train local workers in the skills they need for the increasingly digital future to help make Canadian industry even more competitive. Jubilant Life Sciences, part of Jubilant Bhartia Group, will invest $100 million to expand its facilities in Kirkland, Quebec. The facilities are used for the manufacturing and distribution of medical devices that are recognized globally for their high quality and capabilities. Consus Global announced the establishment of an office in Ontario to provide consulting and implementation services to the Canadian and North American markets. Consus Global is one of the leading procurement systems integrator and services companies in India, working in the fields of cost reduction, procurement to pay optimization, and supplier collaboration. Valiant Communications Limited, one of the leading telecom equipment manufacturers of India, is planning to make upstream business investments in Canada to design and develop products that will be used to monitor and administer distributed power networks based on artificial

intelligence. The new operation will also be used to provide customer support services to North American customers. Clarion Pharmaceutical Co., an ISO 9001:2015 company, announced plans to establish a Canadian manufacturing facility that will produce natural health products for export, as well as domestic consumption. Co-headquartered in India and the United States, Softsquare, a provider of Salesforce implementation services, is aligning with Salesforce Canada to launch their cloud solutions practice in Canada. Softsquare is venturing into Canada with the intent of tapping into Salesforce clientele and research talent. Vision Controls Inc., a sister company of Vision Comptel based in Kolkata, India, announced the launch of operations in Ontario in the field of automation. The company plans to scale up operations with recruitment of a local team and to establish a development centre to cater to the North & South American markets, starting in mid-2018. Canadian companies invest in India Canadian companies will also invest in India, bring their innovative ideas to the country to capitalize on India’s increasingly stable investment climate and to help its policy priorities. These investments include: Brookfield has agreed to acquire Essar Group’s 1.25-million square foot office complex in Mumbai for $480 million. Essar, whose major subsidiary is currently under insolvency, will use

the proceeds to repay their Indian lenders. This is an example of Canadian capital entering the country to help with the recovery of India's stressed banking sector. Fairfax India Holdings Corporation of Canada announced it is acquiring a 51 per cent stake in the Catholic Syrian Bank Ltd. of Kerala. This $200 million transaction marks the first time the Reserve Bank of India has allowed a foreign entity to take a controlling interest in an Indian financial institution. This transaction will inject much needed capital to a region of India needing economic opportunities for its citizens. Quebec-based Darram Inc. and Indian Hotels Company Limited proudly announced the opening of the Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, located beside the Ganges River in Uttarakhand. Set amidst the Himalayas, this ecoconscious hotel—with an investment of $30 million—will showcase a joint IndoCanadian design that adheres to the world’s best sustainable development practices. Cricket Canada and Mercuri Talent of India’s Mercuri Group announced the launch of a Global T-20 Canadian Cricket League with an initial investment of $20 million. The inaugural tournament is scheduled to be held in June 2018 in the Toronto area, with the participation of six elite Canadian teams involving both international and Canadian cricketers. Alacrity India fund, part of Wesley Clover’s global technology startup initiative, has started operations

after completing and Exchange Board of India registration and groundbreaking of their incubator in Pune, India. Co-promoted with the Indian company "Ideas to Impacts," the company will help Indian startups that provide subscription-based solutions to businesses to scale globally. The fund’s first investment of approximately USD$0.5 million is expected in March. Vancouver Film School announced the opening of a campus in Mumbai, located at the Wilson College’s Mackichan Complex, where students will learn the film school’s curricula. Upon completion of the programs at the Mumbai campus, students will have the option to transfer to the Vancouver Film School campus in Vancouver. Dominion Diamond India, headquartered in Alberta, has set up a new shared services office in Mumbai that provides IT support to Dominion Diamond Mines offices and operations around the world. The company has been operating in India since 2005 to sort and sell premium rough diamond assortments from the Ekati and Diavik diamond mines in the Northwest Territories. It employs almost 100 people in India, including the new IT staff. Dominion Diamond Mines works with numerous Indian diamond manufacturers on the CanadaMark hallmark program, to assure the integrity of the supply chain of Canadian diamonds from mine to retail.

Opportunities for women By providing access to funding, talent, mentorship, and potential customers, Canada and India will work together on initiatives that help women in both countries build thriving businesses. These agreements include: Canada’s Department of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development and India’s Department of Science and Technology announced new funding of $500,000 each for Zone Startups, owned by Ryerson Futures Inc., to support bilateral exchange of entrepreneurial ventures with a major focus on women-led startups. The funding will enable 20 entrepreneurs from Canada to participate in a soft-landing program at Zone Startups in Mumbai, and 20 Indian entrepreneurs from India to participate in a soft-landing program at Zone Startups in Toronto. Zone Startups will also organize an annual two-day seminar in both cities, reaching an additional 60 women in both countries. This initiative follows Zone Startups' success with empoWer, which has impacted 35 women entrepreneurs in India, and the Next BIG Idea Contest through which 33 Indian startups have entered Canada over the years. Vancouver Film School announced a scholarship competition for all students, and one specifically for women, from across India in the fields of Film Production, 3D Animation and VFX, Game Design,

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Bilateral Ties and Digital Design. Students will be judged on their portfolios, and a total of 36 scholarships will be available. The SME Chamber of India has appointed AVC Inc. as their representative for business development in Canada. Under this agreement, AVC will connect small and medium-sized enterprises from both countries, with a focus on women entrepreneurs, in the sectors of agri-food, technology, and arts and culture. The Canada-India Acceleration Program, jointly launched by Carleton University and the All India Council for Technical Education, will empower women entrepreneurs to scale-up their innovative solutions internationally to address global challenges. The program will provide women entrepreneurs with access to funding, talent, mentorship, and potential customers. Creative collaborations between Canada and India Canada and India will strengthen our people-to-people ties through cultural exchanges and increased collaboration in the arts that will create jobs in the creative sector and help grow Canada’s film industry. These agreements include: Academy Award Winner Director Roger Christian will direct a feature film called Black Angel, with producing partners Lina Dhingra of Canada’s karmaPRO Entertainment Group and Harald Reichebner of Germany’s Global Filmtime. This epic fantasy feature will highlight the majestic landscapes of Rajasthan, which is known for its beauty and architecture. The $8 million production is slated to start filming in September 2018. Toronto-based True Space Films and Delhi-based Ekaa Films have signed an agreement to co-produce “A Taj Mahal Love Story,” a full-length feature film with a strong woman empowerment narrative. The film will be shot in India with editing and post-production completed in Toronto. The producers are working to make this film an official co-production under the Canada-India co-production agreement. The Canada-India co-production

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"CITIZEN J," produced by the Canadian company Karma Film and the Indian company Video Volunteers, is a cross-platform documentary series that examines the role and impact of citizen journalists in indigenous communities in Canada and India on hot-button issues like gender, poverty and the environment. Canadian-based NeGandhi Marketing & Consulting and Mumbai-based Assemblage Entertainment have partnered with Los Angeles-based Whisper Pictures and a Beijing-based subsidiary of CFG on the animated family film Mooned – a story about Jade Rabbit, the Rabbit in the Moon in Asian mythology, and how he and his 357 babies rescue their home from the depredations of two careless human astronauts. Breathing Forest Productions Canada and Bombay Berlin Film Production India are partnering on Permanent Resident, a co-venture feature film which will begin production in the fall of 2018. The project, by writer and director Satinder Kassoana, a Canadian citizen of Indian origin, was selected for NFDC India’s Coproduction Market 2017. The film will be shot in Canada and India in English and Punjabi. The Canada-India-Europe co production Shadow of a Crescent Moon, based on the novel by Fatima Bhutto, will be directed by Oscar-nominated Michael Radford and produced by Canada’s Anand Ramayya and Austria’s Arno Krimmer. Canada-India co-production The Boyfriend, based on the novel by R. Raj Rao, will be adapted for the screen by Brad Fraser, two-time winner of the Chalmers Award and a Canadian Governor General Award nominee. The co-production will be directed by groundbreaking Indian Independent Filmmaker Ashim Ahluwalia, and produced by Canada’s Anand Ramayya and Mehernaz Lentin and India’s Anu Rangachar. Untitled Delhi Police Series is based on true-life accounts of officers in India’s capital. It is a gritty, streetshot depiction of law and order in the

world’s largest democracy. Written and directed by Richie Mehta, and produced by Golden Karavan and Ivanhoe Pictures, it is one of the largest ever Canada-India film and television projects. AVC Inc., a Canadian consultancy, has signed an agreement with BWB Films of Mumbai to market BWB’s films in Canada. The first film under this agreement is Saade Aale, which highlights the Canadian kabbadi sports team and the cultural ties between Canada and India. The film will be released in Canada on July 6, 2018. The second film under this agreement is Desi, parts of which will be filmed in Canada this summer. Canada sells what India needs India is the one of the world’s fastest growing economies, and a priority market for Canada in a variety of sectors, including aerospace, clean technology, transportation and infrastructure. Some of the commercial agreements finalized this week include: eCAMION, an Ontario energy storage company, has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services to design and manufacture electric vehicle and bus charging stations in India. With a long-term opportunity of $50 million, this partnership will see eCAMION’s energy storage-supported electric charging technology lay the groundwork for the large-scale electrification of India’s public and private transportation sectors. Starmass Environment Technologies Corporation signed an agreement with Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS) Water Ltd, a subsidiary of IL&FS India, to add value to their water sector services to address some of the acute and immediate concerns of the water utility industry. They will use some of the very high potential technologies available with Starmass using smart contracts and blockchain technology for leak detection, automated meter reading, and water systems integration.

Bilateral Ties Vancouver-based VeloMetro Mobility Inc. signed a technology, manufacturing, and licensing memorandum of understanding with S P Sanjay & Sons that will assist the company to deploy its electric vehicle technology worldwide, with an initial franchised fleet being deployed in India and potentially throughout the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation area. This new agreement leverages the technology developed in Canada with manufacturing and distribution capabilities in India. IMAX Corporation and India’s leading multiplex chain, PVR Cinemas, signed an agreement to open five new IMAX theatres in India. This marks the parties’ fourth agreement, bringing PVR’s total IMAX network to 15. IMAX works with the world’s most acclaimed studios and filmmakers to deliver audiences an immersive movie-going experience. British Columbia-based MDA will provide satellite data from RADARSAT-2 to ISRO under an agreement with NRSC. The radar data will be primarily used in India for disaster monitoring, to support rescue operations during the rainy season when floods occur, and for agricultural monitoring applications. This contract is an extension of work that has been done for more than 15 years. Toronto’s Pack-Smart Inc., a world’s leading designer and manufacturer of high performance automation technologies, and Reliance Jio, India’s fastest-growing telecommunications a n d d i g i t a l s e r v i c e s c o m p a n y, reached a cooperation agreement for the implementation of PackSmart’s advanced technologies in Jio’s distribution business. The products include SIM card packaging automation, fulfillment equipment, and software applications. This partnership is an important stepping stone towards further collaboration and development, and eventual Pack-Smart technology manufacturing opportunities in India. Jio selected Solace, a leading Canadian IT company, for their messaging middleware appliance to support faster customer on boarding and provisioning. Solace messaging middleware appliances provide high performance, reliability, scalability, and the ability to

efficiently route massive amounts of event-driven information. ThinkRF Corp., the leader in software-defined spectrum analysis, announced its expansion to India with the appointment of VigVen Tech Mark Pvt Ltd., an authorized reseller of electronic test equipment, as its channel partner for ThinkRF solutions in that region. This relationship will help ThinkRF quickly enter the rapidly growing India market with a trusted provider of electronic test solutions while expanding VigVen’s product portfolio to better help their customers solve several key challenges in spectrum monitoring and analysis. DataWind launched MeraNet, a patented breakthrough web delivery platform application. Providing a revolutionary internet service to help bridge the digital divide for the billion unconnected Indians, MeraNet delivers unlimited internet browsing on any android smartphone or tablet on the BSNL network at just one rupee/day. MeraNet allows unlimited browsing of billions of webpages for a full year for a one-time annual fee of only Rs.365. Building people-to-people ties through education Canada and India will increase their partnership in education to strengthen our people-to-people ties, while encouraging joint research and development projects and spurring entrepreneurship and innovation. Canada-India education agreements include: Niagara College and INSCOL Healthcare are embarking on a multiyear program to increase global access to health services through nursing education for 1000 Indian health professionals, addressing a global shortage of skilled nursing professionals. This agreement will generate more than $50 million, driving economic development and job creation in Ontario. University of British Columbia and Mitacs will provide 10 inbound and 30 outbound student research internship awards to strengthen

the bilateral connections with Indian energy research institutions. The exchanges will be aligned with the University’s initiatives in clean energy, energy access, and mobility, as well as developing industry-led training and research consortia. This partnership is part of a funding project worth more than $3.5 million over three years, shared among some Canadian universities, Mitacs, the Ministry of Human Resource Development of India and the World Bank. Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology at the University of Waterloo and Mitacs will provide five inbound and 10 outbound student research internship awards in partnerships with selected IITs to enhance cross-border entrepreneurship and technology commercialization activities bilaterally in the field of nanotechnology. The internships will be conducted in close coordination with Waterloo’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. This partnership is part of a funding project of more than $3.5 million over three years, shared among some Canadian universities, Mitacs, the Ministry of Human Resource Development of India, and the World Bank. University of Toronto and Mitacs will provide 15 inbound and 50 outbound student research internship awards to strengthen the partnerships with institutions in India. The initiative will be aligned with their engagement with the city of Pune’s Smart Pune Program that is focused on affordable housing, immigrant migration, digital interoperability, and cybersecurity. This partnership is part of a funding project of more than $3.5 million over three years, shared among some Canadian universities, Mitacs, the Ministry of Human Resource Development of India, and the World Bank. Simon Fraser University and Mitacs will provide 10 inbound and 10 outbound research internships to strengthen its partnerships with India's elite network of Indian Institutes of Technology and provide students with opportunities to gain advanced research skills and global competencies. This partnership is part of a funding project of more

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018

Bilateral Ties than $3.5 million over three years, shared between some Canadian universities, Mitacs, the Ministry of Human Resource Development of India, and the World Bank.

and their application programs, and assist students in their transition to Canada. This app is expected to be used by over 25,000 prospective students in 2018.

This first ever initiative in India by the National Academy of Construction, in partnership with Starmass Canada, is a milestone in Indo-Canadian cooperation and will help build capacity in India's technical workforce. This partnership will impart key skills in assessment, evaluation of structural soundness of ageing physical infrastructure, rehabilitation, operation, and maintenance areas, leading to the protection of Indian physical assets. The estimated value of this partnership is $2 million over a period of 5 years.

Niagara College and the International Institute of Hotel Management, an Indian leader in hospitality and tourism education, have established a new partnership to support twoway mobility and skills transfer as part of Niagara College’s vision of being Canada’s global college. This new partnership deepens Niagara College’s education footprint across India.

Vancouver’s Langara College signed an agreement with technology firm Optimus Information in Noida, in partnership with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. The threeyear deal worth $80,000 creates a pilot program to support Langara College Computer Science and Business students for four-month work-integrated learning placements at Optimus. Father Fénelon Catholic School in Pickering, Ontario and St. Kabir School in Ahmedabad, India launched a partnership for participation in the Global Gandhi Peace Program, which is focused on teaching non-violence to children and youth. These two schools will pilot a program developed by the Indian Centre for Environment Education and the Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust. The program will be launched globally on October 2, 2019, which will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi. Carleton and Nirma University will sign a memorandum of understanding focused on supporting research collaboration, capacity building, and other forms of academic partnerships. Durham College, Fanshawe College, Georgian College, and St. Clair College have launched a mobile app for prospective students from India. This app, developed in India by MapleAssist Inc., will provide relevant and credible information about the colleges

India-ca na da in Fo c u s 20 18

Seneca College and FORE School of Management announced a partnership to deliver online executive education programs for working professionals in India and elsewhere on Tech-Mahindra's state of art Learning Management System. The first program under this collaboration is an online, 11-month executive management program that features an optional two-week global immersion program. The program will be delivered in Toronto, Canada. Seneca College and INSCOL Healthcare announced a partnership to provide internationally trained nurses with additional knowledge and skills to competently care for individuals and their families experiencing cardiovascular illness. This two-semester postgraduate certificate program will combine theory and clinical courses to provide the knowledge, skills, and judgment to practice safely in an acute coronary care setting. University of Toronto and Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay announced a student mobility partnership creating bi-directional learning abroad programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Participating students register at the host institution for the full academic year or a minimum of one academic term. Fostering innovation ties between Canada and India Both Canada and India will benefit from agreements focused on joint

research and development investments that will allow our countries to work together on common issues. Innovation related agreements include: Kinectrics Inc., a Canadian energy technology company, has teamed up with the Gujarat Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, Gujarat to set up a one of a kind conductor testing, R&D, and forensics laboratory. With an investment of $1.75 million each, the local economy is expected to grow by close to $4 million very quickly. The ground-breaking ceremony took place on February 19, 2018, and construction will start immediately. Venus Group and Safritel Canada Inc. signed a joint venture, which will focus on automotive innovation and R&D initiatives to develop new automotive advanced emissions technologies, best in class automotive seat adjustment, automotive ecosystem technologies, and cloud connected solutions for connected and automated vehicles to improve driver connectivity. The investment will see an R&D centre established in Ottawa, followed by manufacturing facilities in India and Canada. Carleton University's Canada-India Centre for Excellence and Participatory Research in Asia, in partnership with other leading centres in India and Canada, are launching a program to develop capacity building programs in the administration and planning for Smart Cities projects. I C - I M PA C T S a n d S e n s e I n d i a , part of Starmass Group, a global provider of turnkey solutions for infrastructure, will collaborate to monitor the health of bridges and public infrastructure using high-tech sensors. This venture represents success of small and medium-sized enterprises to collaborate across international boundaries and expand technological innovations in infrastructure, energy, and the environment. Ontario’s Communitech and Hyderabad's T-Hub announced the intent to partner in support of global commercialization of each other's technology companies. They will share space, programming, and mentorship, and create a program where companies

Bilateral Ties

Canada's Hon. Minister of Science, Sports & Persons with Disabilities, Kirsty Duncan, visited Tata Consultancy Services, Executive Briefing Centre in Mumbai, and caught a glimpse of the tech we're developing and insights on how we're grooming future workforce

of both countries will join to resolve a corporate innovation problem. H y d e r a b a d ' s T- H u b a n d t h e University of British Columbia signed a statement of cooperation to establish a market access bridge allowing growth stage start-ups and scale-ups from both countries to enter Indian and Canadian markets successfully as part of their global expansion. Both partners have further agreed to support aspiring student entrepreneurs from both countries in solving problems of global relevance through co-creation. University of Toronto and the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay announced a partnership to deepen collaboration and the innovation ecosystem between Canada and India. Together, they will develop capacity and ideas exchange for both countries, develop the next generation of Indian faculty, and grow higher education capacity in India to accelerate joint research, industry engagement, entrepreneurship, and mutual market access for Canada and India. The University of Toronto and Biocon Ltd., India’s leading biopharmaceutical company, have

signed a collaborative research agreement to identify a novel set of biological assets for complex diseases with a goal to address unmet patient needs. The collaboration, negotiated by the Centre for the Commercialization of Antibodies and Biologics, will leverage the scientific expertise of Biocon scientists at its research centre in Bangalore and Dr. Sachdev Sidhu’s team at the Donnelly Centre at the University, continuing their productive research partnership and applying their unique strengths toward finding solutions for global health issues. IC-IMPACTS and Tata Consultancy Services, a global IT leader, will jointly fund mobility of Canadian graduate students to conduct research at Tata Consultancy Services Innovation Centers in India. Indian and Canadian researchers will be immersed in fasttracking solutions to infrastructure, water, and public health challenges facing India, Canada, and other nations. Showcasing Canada-India joint research and development collaboration to innovate new age medical equipment, Jubilant Draxlmage, in close collaboration

with the Ottawa Heart Institute, has developed RUBY-FILL, a cuttingedge product which enhances the way that patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease are both diagnosed and managed. This product has received approval from the Ministry of Health in India in 2018, and first sales have now commenced. British Columbia’s Rick Hansen Institute and IC-IMPACTS have forged a strategic partnership with researchers at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre and the All India Institute of Medical Science for an innovation project to develop and commercialize technologies that address secondary complications in people living with spinal cord injuries. The Blockchain Research Institute of Canada, a world leader exploring blockchain opportunities and challenges, will initiate a memorandum of understanding with India’s NASSCOM. This partnership will accelerate India’s adoption of this technology for innovation, prosperity and good government. Source: Prime Minister of Canada website

In d ia -c a n a d a in Focus 2018