National Science Day 2024 Theme Unveiled: “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat”

New Delhi: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, unveiled the theme for “National Science Day 2024” on Tuesday. Titled “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,” the theme emphasizes the pivotal role of indigenous technologies in fostering overall well-being and development.

The theme aims to promote public appreciation for Science, Technology, and Innovation while showcasing the accomplishments of Indian scientists in addressing challenges through home-grown technologies.

“Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat” signifies a new era and provides an opportunity for collaboration between the public and scientific communities, both domestically and internationally, to contribute to India’s well-being and global advancements.

Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the importance of making India self-reliant through science and addressing subjects that hold significance for humanity as a whole.

NSD is celebrated annually on February 28 to commemorate the discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’ by Sir C.V. Raman, for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930.

The theme launch initiates celebrations of NSD, particularly in schools and colleges across the country, with theme-based science communication activities.

India’s scientific achievements over the past decade have propelled the nation globally. India ranks among the top five countries in scientific research publications and has climbed to the 40th position in the Global Innovation Index, showcasing a remarkable leap from the 81st rank in 2015.

With over 90,000 patent filings, the highest in two decades, India has strengthened its Science and Technology (S&T) ecosystem in diverse fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Astronomy, Solar & Wind Energy, Semiconductors, Climate Research, Space Research, and Biotechnology.

India’s scientific breakthroughs, from lab innovations to the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the south pole of the moon, have garnered global recognition. India stands out for its robust vaccine development capacity, evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The nation is now ready to align with global strides in Quantum Technology, and the impact of Indian scientific breakthroughs significantly enhances the ‘Ease of Living’ for citizens.

Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary DST, emphasized that Indian scientific endeavours have the power to shape not only the nation’s future but also contribute significantly to global advancement.

He encouraged the scientific community to create an ecosystem that fosters scientific inquiry and collaboration across the nation, leveraging the transformative power of science for the greater good.