Science Day Theme: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

Science Day: 28th February 2024

Theme: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

National Science Day is celebrated in India on February 28th each year to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. This day not only pays tribute to one of India's greatest scientists but also serves as a reminder of the importance of indigenous scientific research and technological advancements. The theme for National Science Day 2024, ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,’ as proposed by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, underscores the crucial role of homegrown technologies in fostering the development of a prosperous and self-reliant India.

Empowering Communities with Indigenous Technologies

Indigenous technologies empower local communities by providing them with tools and solutions tailored to their specific needs and challenges. Whether it's in agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, or information technology, indigenous technologies promote self-reliance by reducing dependency on imports and expertise. By encouraging local innovation and entrepreneurship, Viksit Bharat aims to build a robust ecosystem where indigenous technologies flourish, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

During the launch event of the Digital India FutureLABS Summit 2024 at IIIT-Delhi, significant strides were made in the transfer of indigenous technologies developed under the InTranSE Program of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Among these technologies were the Thermal camera, CMOS camera, and Fleet Management System designed and developed by CDAC Thiruvananthapuram. These technologies, aimed at enhancing various industrial processes, highlight the potential of indigenous innovations to address real-world challenges and drive industrial growth.

Boosting Indigenous Technology: Initiatives and Impacts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the SPRINT Challenges during the event, targeting the usage of indigenous technology in the Indian Navy. Some of these are Carbon Nanotubes/Aerogel-based fabrics which offer multiple usages, including camouflage against IR cameras, enhancing the Navy's stealth capabilities in various operational scenarios. Additionally, the Navy incorporated indigenous Monolithic Lens Providing unparalleled magnification, to enhance the Navy's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, contributing to situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

Encouraging the concept of indigenous technology in schools is paramount to nurturing a culture of innovation and self-reliance from an early age. Hands-on projects and practical demonstrations that utilize local resources and traditional knowledge can provide students with a deeper understanding of indigenous technologies and their applications. Moreover, establishing partnerships with local industries and research institutions can offer students opportunities for real-world exposure and collaboration in developing indigenous solutions to local challenges.

The theme of ‘Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat’ underscores the importance of fostering homegrown innovations to achieve the vision of a developed and self-reliant India. By harnessing the power of indigenous technologies, India can empower its citizens, promote sustainable development, bridge socioeconomic divides, and enhance its global competitiveness. As we celebrate National Science Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to nurturing and promoting indigenous technologies as catalysts for Viksit Bharat's journey toward prosperity and progress.

Kirti Naik

PGT Chemistry