Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong has announced the 34 recipients of this year’s Maitri Grants, Fellowships and Scholarships, with over $6 million committed to boost Australia-India ties across technology, education, business, and culture.
Senator Penny Wong said in a satement:
“Australia and India’s relationship is closer and more important than ever. We are deepening cooperation across priority sectors that are vital to both nations’ futures, including in defence, trade, education, and technology.”
18 Key projects funded in the 2024–2025 round include:
- The Lowy Institute’s inaugural India Chair to elevate research and policy dialogue on India’s strategic role in the Indo-Pacific, backed by an $850,000 grant.
- A landmark exhibition of rare artworks by Indian master painter Raja Ravi Varma at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art.
- New cleantech and agtech industry playbooks developed by Asialink Business to drive innovation partnerships.
- Cross-border creative labs and storytelling incubators by Bodhini Labs and Bodhi Studios, amplifying South Asian diaspora voices on global screens.
- A Gardening Australia India Special by ABC, exploring India’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
A full list of recipients includes major institutions such as Deakin University, Western Sydney University, the University of Adelaide, Fremantle Biennale, Royal Life Saving Society, and the Australia India Youth Dialogue.
In addition, thirteen Maitri Scholarships will support pioneering research in fields such as quantum computing and clean energy, while three Maitri Fellowships will advance cooperation in biomanufacturing, maritime strategy, and digital governance.
Notable recipients span the country, with grants supporting everything from immersive art installations and AI-powered water management strategies, to youth dialogues and drowning prevention programs. Projects will be delivered in collaboration with partners across India and Australia.
Administered by the Centre for Australia-India Relations, the Maitri (Sanskrit for “friendship”) program supports collaborative initiatives that strengthen bilateral connections and showcase the richness of both nations. The Maitri initiative is part of Australia’s broader commitment to fostering ties with India in sectors critical to both countries’ futures—including defence, trade, education, and technology.
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