In a heartfelt moment of national pride, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to mark National Technology Day, commemorating India’s landmark strides in technological advancement. This annual celebration, observed on May 11, honors the achievements of the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests, carried out under Operation Shakti, a cornerstone in India’s journey toward self-reliance and global technological standing.
A Message of Gratitude and Pride
“Best wishes on National Technology Day! This is a day to express pride and gratitude to our scientists and remember the 1998 Pokhran tests,” PM Modi stated on X. His message celebrates the scientific community’s ingenuity, whose efforts have propelled India into a new era of technological innovation, especially in defense and aerospace.
Celebrating Technological Ingenuity
The event has evolved beyond its origins, becoming a homage to brilliant scientific minds and a platform for collaboration among scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers. The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology, plays a pivotal role in orchestrating these celebrations, fostering partnerships that push India’s technological boundaries.
YANTRA: A Vision for the Future
Adding flavor to this year’s celebration, the theme “Yugantar for Advancing New Technology, Research, and Acceleration” or YANTRA, reflects a new epochal shift. This theme underscores India’s relentless march from adapting foreign technologies to becoming a beacon of innovation, a true leader in the global tech landscape. The cultural roots of “Yantra” symbolize mechanical ingenuity, representing an era of transformative progress.
An Epochal Event
The grand event, at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, encapsulated these themes, attracting technocrats, policymakers, and innovators alike. Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh highlighted that “‘Yantra’ carries more than one connotation, particularly considering the situation the region is going through.” This underscores the importance of technological readiness in today’s geopolitical climate.
Looking to the Future
As India celebrates its technological prowess, the focus remains on driving growth through innovation. According to News9 LIVE, these initiatives are not only about commemorating past achievements but also setting firm aspirations for the future, where technology continues to uplift humanity.