On May 11, 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the National Technology Day celebration at the Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, highlighting India’s remarkable progress in indigenous technology development. The event underscored the pivotal role of technology in modern warfare and India’s journey towards self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
India’s Technological Prowess in Defence
Technology-Driven Warfare
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that modern warfare is entirely driven by technology, with India’s advancements over the past decade proving its supremacy. He noted that indigenously developed technologies have significantly strengthened national security, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for fostering confidence in achieving self-reliance. From drones to advanced defence systems, India’s technological ecosystem has evolved to meet global standards.
Role of the Technology Development Board
The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology, was lauded for supporting innovative projects, such as the 1000-drone show at the Beating Retreat ceremony. This year’s theme, “YANTRA”, reflects transformation through advanced research, highlighting India’s commitment to pioneering technological solutions.
Key Achievements in Science and Innovation
Global Innovation Leadership
India’s rise in the Global Innovation Index from 81st to 39th position showcases its growing stature as a technology leader. Nearly 56% of patents are now filed by resident Indians, and the country boasts the third-largest startup ecosystem globally. Defence exports have surged from ₹2,000 crore to ₹16,000 crore, driven by indigenous capabilities. Budgetary allocations for research have also doubled, with Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) increasing from ₹60,000 crore to ₹1,27,000 crore.
Space and Research Initiatives
The space sector budget has nearly tripled, fueled by private sector participation. Initiatives like One Nation, One Subscription and a unified portal for fellowships have streamlined research access, fostering an enabling environment for innovation.
Event Highlights and Future Vision
Recognizing Innovation
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh released a compendium of “Super 30 Startups” funded by TDB and launched two new calls for proposals under the National Quantum Mission. He also awarded project grants for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) pilot projects, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable innovation.
Celebrating National Technology Day 2025
On May 11, 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the National Technology Day celebration at the Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, highlighting India’s remarkable progress in indigenous technology development. The event underscored the pivotal role of technology in modern warfare and India’s journey towards self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
India’s Technological Prowess in Defence
Technology-Driven Warfare
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that modern warfare is entirely driven by technology, with India’s advancements over the past decade proving its supremacy. He noted that indigenously developed technologies have significantly strengthened national security, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for fostering confidence in achieving self-reliance. From drones to advanced defence systems, India’s technological ecosystem has evolved to meet global standards.
Role of the Technology Development Board
The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology, was lauded for supporting innovative projects, such as the 1000-drone show at the Beating Retreat ceremony. This year’s theme, “YANTRA”, reflects transformation through advanced research, highlighting India’s commitment to pioneering technological solutions.
Key Achievements in Science and Innovation
Global Innovation Leadership
India’s rise in the Global Innovation Index from 81st to 39th position showcases its growing stature as a technology leader. Nearly 56% of patents are now filed by resident Indians, and the country boasts the third-largest startup ecosystem globally. Defence exports have surged from ₹2,000 crore to ₹16,000 crore, driven by indigenous capabilities. Budgetary allocations for research have also doubled, with Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) increasing from ₹60,000 crore to ₹1,27,000 crore.
Space and Research Initiatives
The space sector budget has nearly tripled, fueled by private sector participation. Initiatives like One Nation, One Subscription and a unified portal for fellowships have streamlined research access, fostering an enabling environment for innovation.
Event Highlights and Future Vision
Recognizing Innovation
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh released a compendium of “Super 30 Startups” funded by TDB and launched two new calls for proposals under the National Quantum Mission. He also awarded project grants for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) pilot projects, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable innovation.
India’s Technological Future
Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by stating that the 27th National Technology Day marks international recognition of India’s leadership in science and technology, setting the stage for Viksit Bharat @2047. The event, attended by notable figures like Padma Bhushan Ajai Chowdhary, emphasized a “Whole of Nation” approach to achieving true self-reliance in technology.
Key Facts About National Technology Day and India’s Technological Advancements
Significance of National Technology Day
National Technology Day is celebrated annually on May 11 to commemorate the successful Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998, a landmark event that showcased India’s technological capabilities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation and self-reliance in shaping the nation’s future.
India’s Technological Milestones
India’s technological advancements include the development of indigenous defence systems, such as missiles and drones, and significant growth in the space sector with missions like Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan. The rise in defence exports and the tripling of the space budget reflect India’s global competitiveness. Initiatives like the National Quantum Mission and increased research funding are driving innovation in emerging fields like quantum technology and sustainable energy.