National Technology Day: Why is it celebrated, what is the significance

National Technology Day is celebrated annually on 11 May to pay tributes to the stalwarts and advancements in the technological domain. After the successful nuclear tests under Pokhran-II aka Operation Shakti for the first time in 1998, May 11 was declared as the national day of technology. The series of five nuclear bomb tests signified a shift in India’s technological abilities and was instrumental in garnering attention as a nuclear power.

Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee celebrated the first national technology day in 1999 organised by the Council for Technology Development.

Observed with different themes each year, ‘School to Startups-Igniting Young Minds to Innovate’ is the theme for 2023.

Importance

The day stands as a reminder for India’s achievements in science and technology and is celebrated to honour leaders in space travel, defense, healthcare, agriculture and more. It serves to recognise the contributions of Indian scientists, engineers, and technologists to their respective fields and the country’s development. Involving the youth in appreciating such talents will help build inspiration and motivation to pursue excellence in similar fields.

Celebration

To mark the occasion, several events, seminars, conferences, and exhibitions are conducted to demonstrate India’s technological prowess. The day shines light on the importance of investment in technology and provides a platform for innovators to exchange ideas and work on collaborations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed the 1998 nuclear tests in Pokhran as one of the most glorious days in India’s history, and asserted that technology for the country is not about showing its dominance but a tool to speed up its development.

Addressing an event on the National Technology Day in Delhi, the PM said the country is moving in every direction which is needed to be a tech leader.

The programme also marked the commencement of 25th year celebrations of National Technology Day, which will be held from May 11-14.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh were also present at the event.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of multiple projects related to scientific and technological advancement worth more than ₹5800 crore.

(With inputs from PTI)