Good morning to everyone present here,
Today, we celebrate an important occasion that marks India’s technological strength and innovation — National Technology Day.
This day is observed every year on May 11 to commemorate a significant event in Indian history — the successful nuclear test at Pokhran in 1998. This was not just a test of atomic power but a moment of national pride, scientific excellence, and strategic self-reliance.
On this day, under the leadership of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India declared itself a nuclear nation after carrying out five successful tests at Pokhran-II. This bold step put India on the world map as a nation capable of harnessing advanced technology with courage and responsibility.
But National Technology Day is not only about nuclear power. It is a day to honor and celebrate the spirit of innovation, creativity, and scientific contribution of Indian scientists, engineers, researchers, and technocrats.
India’s journey in science and technology has been long and inspiring. From Aryabhata, the ancient mathematician, to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the Missile Man of India, our land has produced some of the greatest scientific minds. Their contributions have shaped not only India but also influenced the world.
Let us take a moment to appreciate our achievements — our space missions, especially Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and now Gaganyaan; our advancements in information technology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and agriculture technologies.
India has also become a hub for startups and digital innovation. With government initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and Startup India, young minds are getting empowered to build technology that solves real-world problems.
Technology is not just about machines and code. It is about improving human life. From access to education and healthcare to building smart cities and green energy, the power of technology is shaping our future every day.
Let us not forget that technology played a major role in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether it was vaccine development, mobile health apps, or online education, Indian technology rose to the challenge.
But with great power comes great responsibility. As we celebrate National Technology Day, let us also reflect on how we can use technology ethically, sustainably, and inclusively. Our aim must not be just to invent but to innovate for all.
Technology should bridge gaps, not widen them. It should lift up the poor, educate the underserved, and provide equal opportunities to all sections of society. Only then can we truly call ourselves a technologically developed nation.
On this day, let us encourage young students to explore science and build problem-solving skills. Let schools and colleges host workshops, science exhibitions, and innovation fairs. Let our youth understand that they are the future inventors and innovators of India.
We must also recognize the contribution of our scientific institutions — ISRO, DRDO, BARC, CSIR, and many others. These institutions are the backbone of our technological ecosystem. Their efforts have not only given us recognition but also ensured our national security and development.
The road ahead is full of possibilities — artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, quantum computing, and clean energy. If India dreams big and invests wisely, we can become a global technology leader.
But to achieve that, we need strong public-private partnerships, better infrastructure, and above all, a mindset of curiosity, courage, and collaboration.
National Technology Day is a reminder that innovation is not a one-day event. It is a habit. A way of thinking. A commitment to progress. It is about lighting a lamp of knowledge that never goes out.
Let us take inspiration from the visionaries who built modern India through science. Let us pledge to keep their spirit alive. Whether we are students, teachers, engineers, entrepreneurs, or leaders, we all have a role to play.
In the words of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.” Let National Technology Day ignite that dream within each of us.
Thank you, and Jai Hind!