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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday remembered the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests as India celebrates National Technology Day. Modi stressed the role of technology in building a self-reliant India.
Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter), PM Modi wrote, “Greetings on National Technology Day.”
He further stated that this was one of the most important events in India’s scientific and strategic history. Furthermore, PM Modi congratulated all the scientists, researchers, engineers, and innovators who were contributing towards the development of India.
The nuclear tests of Pokhran-II occurred on May 11 and May 13, 1998, under the leadership of the then prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, at the test site in Pokhran, Rajasthan. They proved the country’s nuclear potential, which helped improve its global strategic position.
The tests revealed that Indian scientists and researchers succeeded in fulfilling their missions despite the classified nature of their mission and global limitations.
India observes National Technology Day on May 11 every year to commemorate the success of the Pokhran tests. This highlights the contributions of scientists and inventors in the realms of defense, space, medicine, and IT.
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Modi stated that technology is now a significant factor driving the development and governance of India. He believes that initiatives that develop digital infrastructure and support startups, create semiconductor manufacturing and artificial intelligence research facilities, will help India become self-sufficient.
The Prime Minister further explained that India’s young population, together with its startups, develops new solutions that address global problems. He also mentioned that the Indian government remains committed to developing local manufacturing capabilities and supporting research-based economic development.
The Union ministers and other political leaders joined together to honor the scientists who conducted the Pokhran tests through their ceremonial tribute. Educational institutions and government organizations organized discussions to celebrate National Technology Day.
Anuj Garg, Head of Engineering at ZebPay, said India’s technology ecosystem is entering a major growth phase driven by AI, blockchain, cloud computing and digital infrastructure. He said blockchain is emerging as a key technology for trust, transparency and financial innovation across industries.
“India’s technology ecosystem is entering a defining phase of growth, powered by rapid advancements in AI, blockchain, cloud computing and digital public infrastructure,” Garg said.
He added, “As India strengthens its position as a global technology powerhouse, blockchain and digital assets will play a bigger role in building a more inclusive, efficient and future-ready financial ecosystem.”
National Technology Day once again brought focus to India’s scientific achievements and its growing push towards innovation-led development. From the legacy of the Pokhran tests to emerging sectors like AI and blockchain, leaders and industry experts said technology will continue to shape India’s economic growth, strategic strength and digital future.
