Ratan Tata Innovation Hub & Western Sydney University collaborate to drive agritech innovation, global knowledge exchange

Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH), Government of Andhra Pradesh, and Western Sydney University (WSU), Australia, have formalised a strategic partnership aimed at boosting AgriTech innovation, sustainability-focused research, and global startup collaboration.

The MoU was exchanged in New Delhi in the presence of Australian Education Minister Jason Clare and Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan — marking a major milestone in India–Australia educational and innovation cooperation.

This collaboration originated during Andhra Pradesh IT & Electronics Minister Nara Lokesh’s visit to Western Sydney University in October 2025, where both sides explored opportunities for technology exchange, talent development, and incubation of high-potential AgriTech startups.

Under the MoU, RTIH and WSU will work together on: Cross-border startup incubation and entrepreneurship support, technology commercialisation and field validation, co-development of high-impact agritech pilots, joint certifications, training programs, and global mobility for students and researchers and bilateral startup exchange and industry market access pathways

A Joint Steering Committee will guide collaboration and showcase outcomes through conferences and innovation showcases in both countries.

In his message on the occasion, Nara Lokesh said "This collaboration is a big step forward for Andhra Pradesh as we strengthen our position as a global hub for AgriTech innovation. By partnering with a forward-looking institution like Western Sydney University, we are creating new pathways for research translation, startup acceleration, and talent development. This partnership will directly support our farmers, empower young innovators, and bring world-class knowledge to our ecosystem.”