TERI hosts Netherlands delegation to explore collaboration in Bioeconomy and Sustainable Technologies

New Delhi, IHC, 18 March 2026: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) successfully hosted a high-level delegation from the Netherlands to explore opportunities for collaboration in the areas of bioeconomy, sustainable materials, and clean energy technologies. The meeting was held on 18 March 2026 at IHC, TERI and brought together experts from both sides to discuss potential avenues for joint research and innovation.

The Netherlands delegation included Mr Jan Reint Smit, Counsellor for Science, Technology and Innovation; Mr RJH (Renze) de Keizer, India Coordinator and Senior Policy Adviser from the Ministry of Economic Affairs; and Mr Arun Thekkedath, Senior Policy Adviser representing the Netherlands Innovation Network (NIN).

The meeting began with introductory remarks by Dr Girish Sethi, Senior Director at TERI, who provided an overview of TERI’s Energy Programme and its work in areas such as industrial energy efficiency, renewable energy, fuels, electricity systems, and demand-side management. A short institutional film was also presented, highlighting TERI’s research infrastructure, regional presence, and ongoing sustainability initiatives.

During the interaction, the Netherlands delegation shared insights into their work and areas of interest. Mr Renze de Keizer spoke about developments in semiconductor process technologies, energy materials, and hydrogen intermediates derived from biomass, while emphasizing the importance of innovation-driven collaboration. Mr Jan Reint Smit highlighted the longstanding cooperation between India and the Netherlands and stressed the importance of strengthening research and development partnerships in science and technology. Mr Arun Thekkedath discussed the climate portfolio of the Netherlands Innovation Network, particularly in hydrogen and bio-based industries, and expressed interest in expanding collaboration in areas such as bioplastics and green chemistry.

Dr Sanjukta Subudhi, Associate Director at TERI, delivered a technical presentation outlining the global and Indian roadmap for biochemicals and bioplastics. The presentation also highlighted comparative perspectives on bio-based product development in India and the Netherlands, along with ongoing and proposed collaborative initiatives. She also provided an overview of the work carried out by TERI’s Advanced Biofuels Division (ABF), including recent research achievements and international recognitions.

The discussions further explored potential areas of collaboration, including joint research projects in bio-based chemicals and materials, engagement with leading Dutch research institutions such as TNO, Wageningen University, University of Groningen, and TU Delft, and opportunities for collaborative sample analysis using TERI’s research facilities.

The meeting concluded with constructive discussions on strengthening Indo-Dutch collaboration in the bioeconomy sector and exploring future partnership opportunities between institutions and industry stakeholders.