Why in News?
India celebrates National Technology Day every year on May 11 to commemorate its major technological breakthroughs and honour the contributions of scientists and engineers.
About
- Prime Minister’s Tribute: PM Narendra Modi extended greetings today, hailing the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests as a "landmark moment" that continues to drive India's journey toward being a self-reliant nation.
- Theme 2026: The official focus for this year is "Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth", emphasizing that technological benefits must reach both urban and rural populations equally.
- ΰ€΅ΰ€Ώΰ€ΰ₯ΰ€ΰ€Ύΰ€¨ Tech 2026: A major "Whole-of-Government" technology showcase was organized at BRIC-NII, New Delhi, featuring over 70 innovations across sectors like Biopharma, Space, and Deep-Tech.
- Focus on AI: Industry leaders and policymakers held discussions today on "Responsible AI", focusing on privacy, ethical governance, and transitioning India from a tech consumer to a global innovation hub.
Origin
- Established after India's successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests (Operation Shakti) on May 11, 1998, in Rajasthan.
- Also marks the first flight of the indigenous Hansa-3 aircraft and Trishul missile test on the same day.
- Declared by then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to commemorate these achievements.
Significance
- Recognizes contributions of scientists, engineers, and researchers to India's technological progress.
- Highlight’s role of science and technology in nation-building and self-reliance.
- Encourages innovation across sectors like AI, defence, and space.
Celebrations
- Programs by government bodies, institutes, schools, and colleges feature seminars, exhibitions, and awards.
- Showcases industrial innovations and honours ongoing scientific excellence.
- This day, celebrated nationwide, inspires future tech leadership through events spotlighting India's self-developed technologies.
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