Union S&T Minister Dr Jitendra Singh Emphasizes India’s Scientific Achievements and Future Aspirations at IISF 2023

Faridabad: In a resounding call for self-reliance and indigenous solutions, Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, addressed the Inaugural Session of the 9th India International Science Festival (IISF) in Faridabad, Haryana. Dr Singh highlighted India’s recent successes in science and technology, positioning the country as a frontrunner among developed nations.

Key Achievements:

1. Lunar Exploration and Vaccine Development: Dr Jitendra Singh underscored India’s significant achievements, including being the first country to successfully land on the Moon’s South Polar region (Chanrayaan-3), the success story of India’s second COVID vaccine, and the Aroma Mission, which has catalyzed the growth of numerous startups.
2. Five Major Decisions: The minister outlined five pivotal decisions aimed at propelling India’s scientific acumen and technological prowess:
   • Space reforms through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
   • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) for advanced scientific research.
   • National Quantum Mission to position India among select countries pursuing Quantum Technology.
   • National Geospatial Policy for extensive use in schemes like SVAMTIVA for geomapping properties.
   • National Education Policy (NEP-2020) liberating students from restrictive career choices.
3. Space Sector Transformation: Dr Singh highlighted the transformative steps taken in the space sector, opening it to public-private participation. The sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with the number of Space Startups increasing from one in 2014 to 199. The investment in Space Startups has surpassed Rs. 1,000 crore in the last nine months.
4. Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF): Dr Singh emphasized that NRF would usher in a greater PPP model in scientific research, with a budget envisioning a spending of Rs. 50,000 crore over five years, of which over 70% is expected from non-government sources.
5. National Education Policy (NEP-2020): The minister praised NEP-2020 for its transformative impact, allowing students to switch between different streams and liberating them from being ‘prisoners of their aspirations.’

Future Aspirations:

1. Space Economy Projection: Dr Singh projected that India’s space economy, currently standing at $8 billion, could reach $40 billion by 2040. International observers suggest the potential for $100 billion by 2040.
2. Global Rankings: India’s impressive rankings in various global indices, including the Startup ecosystem, Global Innovation Index, resident patent filing, and biotechnology, reflect the country’s exponential growth and recognition on the world stage.

In conclusion, Dr Jitendra Singh instilled confidence in the youth, declaring them the architects of the technology-driven Amritkaal, and affirmed India’s trajectory as a global leader in science, technology, and innovation. The minister’s address resonated with the thunderous applause of hundreds of school children, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to a future shaped by its scientific prowess and technological advancements.