Tag: science and technology

National

PM Modi Launches ₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme at ESTIC 2025 to Power India’s Innovation Revolution

Tanisha Cardozo

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science & Technology Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, marking a historic moment for India’s scientific and innovation landscape. Addressing the gathering of over 3,000 participants, including Nobel Laureates, leading scientists, researchers, academics, policymakers, and industry representatives, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for collaboration in the twenty-first century’s fast-changing world of science and technology. “Today is a big day in the world of science and technology,” he said. “There was a great need for experts from around the world to come together to brainstorm on emerging science, technology, and innovation, and to show direction together. This need gave birth to the vision of this conclave.”

As part of the inaugural ceremony, Prime Minister Modi launched the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme Fund, a ₹1 lakh crore corpus designed to encourage private sector investment in research and development. The fund aims to create capital availability for projects that involve higher risk but carry the potential for large-scale impact. “This ₹1 lakh crore is for you. It is to increase your capabilities. It is to open new opportunities for you,” PM Modi declared, stressing the government’s commitment to promoting research and development within the private sector. He explained that for the first time, India is extending capital support to high-risk, high-impact ventures to accelerate technological breakthroughs.

He also announced the establishment of the *Anusandhan Research Foundation, a new institution that will strengthen research and innovation across universities, creating new pathways for academic and technological advancement. Reflecting on India’s recent scientific milestones, the Prime Minister pointed to the successful launch of *GSAT-7R, India’s heaviest communication satellite, congratulating ISRO scientists for their dedication and vision. He further cited India’s pandemic response, noting how the country developed an indigenous COVID-19 vaccine in record time and executed the world’s largest vaccination drive, enabled by its robust digital public infrastructure.

Alongside the fund launch, PM Modi released a coffee table book showcasing India’s scientific achievements and unveiled a vision document outlining the strategic direction for science and technology in the years ahead. ESTIC 2025 will run as a three-day conclave, featuring discussions across 11 thematic areas including advanced materials and manufacturing, artificial intelligence, bio-manufacturing, digital communications, quantum technologies, energy and climate solutions, and space sciences.

The event embodies India’s resolve to transform from a technology consumer into a global innovation powerhouse. With bold initiatives such as the RDI Fund and the Anusandhan Research Foundation, India is positioning itself to lead the world in deep-tech, research, and innovation — paving the way for a self-reliant, technologically advanced Bharat.

Special Occasion

Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time: Celebrating National Technology Day

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Written by Intern Elsa De Souza, Team Allycaral

May 11 marks a significant milestone in India’s scientific history – National Technology Day. This day commemorates the successful nuclear tests conducted at Pokhran in 1998, establishing India as the sixth nuclear nation in the world. The tests, codenamed Operation Shakti, were conducted under the direction of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and marked a major breakthrough in India’s nuclear program.

India’s journey of innovation has been remarkable. From pathbreaking space missions like Chandrayaan-3 and Mangalyaan to cutting-edge defence systems like the Tejas fighter plane and INS Arihant, our nation has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. In the health and digital spaces, initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI, and homemade vaccines like Covaxin have transformed lives, making technology accessible and effective.

Science and technology have the power to transform societies and empower nations. India’s achievements in these fields are not just indicators of progress but also a testament to the nation’s commitment to harnessing technology for the benefit of society. As we celebrate National Technology Day, we recognize the importance of innovation in shaping our future.

The theme “Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time” reminds us that every breakthrough, no matter how small, contributes to building a stronger and smarter nation. It emphasizes the need for continuous innovation and progress in science and technology to address the challenges of tomorrow.

As we mark National Technology Day, we call upon young minds to take up the mantle of innovation and research. We urge policymakers, industry leaders, and academia to work together to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. Together, we can build a future powered by innovation, self-sufficiency, and sustainable development.

As we look to the future, we are excited about the possibilities that science and technology hold. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to biotechnology and renewable energy, the opportunities for innovation are endless. Let us work together to empower tomorrow, one innovation at a time.

On this National Technology Day, we celebrate India’s scientific prowess and commitment to innovation. We honor the scientists, engineers, and innovators who have made significant contributions to our nation’s progress. We also recognize the importance of science and technology in shaping our future and pledge to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Key Highlights

  • National Technology Day is celebrated on May 11 to commemorate India’s nuclear tests in 1998.
  • India’s achievements in science and technology have transformed lives and empowered the nation.
  • The theme “Empowering Tomorrow, One Innovation at a Time” emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation.
  • The day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of science and technology in shaping our future.
  • It is a call to action for young minds, policymakers, and industry leaders to work together to foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Social

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025: Empowering Exceptional Children

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The Ministry of Women and Child Development has announced the invitation for applications for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025, starting from April 1st, 2025. This prestigious award aims to recognize and honor exceptional children between the ages of 5-18 for their outstanding achievements in various fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the award, the child must be an Indian citizen residing in India, aged 5 years and not exceeding 18 years as of July 31st, 2025. Both self-nominations and recommendations for the awards will be considered ¹.

Fields of Achievement

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar honors exceptional children in the following fields:

  • Bravery: Recognizing acts of courage and selflessness in the face of danger.
  • Sports: Honoring outstanding achievements in various sports.
  • Social Service: Rewarding exceptional contributions to social service and community development.
  • Science & Technology: Encouraging innovation and excellence in science and technology.
  • Environment: Promoting environmental conservation and sustainability.
  • Arts & Culture: Celebrating outstanding achievements in arts and culture.

Application Process

Applications can be submitted online through the National Awards Portal (https://awards.gov.in). starting from April 1st, 2025. The last date for receiving online applications is July 31st, 2025 ¹.

Rewards and Recognition

The selected awardees will receive a medal, a certificate, and a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, along with a book voucher of Rs. 10,000. The awards will be conferred by the Honorable President of India at New Delhi during a special ceremony/function held in January every year ².

Don’t miss this opportunity to recognize and empower exceptional children. Apply now for the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025!