International research group WMG at the University of Warwick is to enhance its links with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in order to strengthen work on climate change, high-tech manufacturing and global healthcare.

The CII works closely with the Indian government and industry on policy issues, enhancing efficiency, competitiveness and expanding business opportunities for industry.

CII has been working together with WMG on training issues. Now this premier business association of the world’s newest superpower is to join forces with WMG, one of the UK’s most influential and forward-looking organisations in research.

These two powerhouses will explore possibilities for cooperation and collaboration in respect of research in the fields of:

• Automotives
• Experiential Engineering
• Robotics
• Healthcare
• E-security
• Sustainable materials
• Hybrids
• Digital Manufacturing
• Rapid Manufacturing
• Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
• Advanced materials

Professor Lord Kumar Bhattacharyya, founder and Director of WMG, said: "The governments of the UK and India recognise the importance of close collaboration of both countries in the field of science and technology.

"There is exciting potential for joint research in many fields between us and, in particular, between WMG, Indian private and public research institutions and universities and the Indian private sector. WMG has already been working with very big industries such as Tata and TVS Motors."

Mr Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General of the CII, said: "Indian industries now have a major focus on innovation in order to become path-breakers in their respective fields. There is also a growing need for IPR protection for Indian organisations.

"All economic powers need to respond to the pressing need for new technology to meet the challenges of climate change and environmental damage and India is no different. We also must contribute to the need for a massive improvement in global healthcare provision.

"This link with WMG will give the Indian economy unsurpassed access to new technology in these key areas."

Notes for editors:

Pictures are available from www.wmg.warwick.ac.uk

WMG is an academic department of the University of Warwick. An internationally renowned research group supporting some of the most advanced research, education and training programmes in the world.

Founded over 110 years ago, the CII is India’s premier business association, with a direct membership of over 5800 companies from the private and public sectors and indirect membership of over 95,000 companies from around 325 national and regional sectoral associations.

For media enquiries please contact Zoë Howard, WMG’s Head of Communications, on 07824 540845 or by email to zoe.howard@warwick.ac.uk