National Technology Day 2024

National Technology Day in India is celebrated on 11 May every year to commemorate the successful nuclear test conducted by the Indian Army at Pokharan in 1998. This day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of innovators, scientists, and engineers, and to promoting scientific and technological innovation in the country.

The following year, on May 11, 1999, the Council for Technology organised the inaugural celebration of National Technology Day. This event served to commemorate the nation’s dynamic technological achievements, honour the contributions of professionals working in the field, and highlight their remarkable accomplishments.

Facts about National Technology Day

• Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee designated May 11 as National Technology Day in India.
• Trishul missile was successfully test-fired on National Technology Day.
• The nuclear missile was tested at the Indian Army’s Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan.
• This was the second test which was conducted after Pokhran-I codenamed Operation Smiling Buddha, in May 1974.
• On the same day, India had test-flown the first indigenous aircraft – ‘Hansa – 3’.
• The Government of India, officially declared 11 May as National Technology Day to commemorate the 5 nuclear tests that were successfully carried out on 11 May 1998.
• After the successful conduct of 5 nuclear tests, India officially declared itself as a full-fledged nuclear state.
• These 5 nuclear tests were codenamed as ‘Operation Shakti’. However, the whole operation is also known as Pokhran-II.
• Pokhran-II nuclear tests helped India achieve the capability to build thermonuclear weapons and fission bombs.
• Successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests gave India the capability to build nuclear bombs with yields of up to 200 kilotons.
• Every year, the Technology Development Board of India (a statutory body under the Ministry of Science and Technology) celebrates the day by awarding individuals with the National Award for their contribution to science and technology in India.

Significance of National Technology Day

India celebrates National Technology Day with great enthusiasm, honouring the remarkable achievements of the nation’s scientists, engineers, and innovators. The government organises events and talks that delve into the future of science and technology, providing a platform for discourse and inspiration.

In essence, this day serves as a unifying force, recognising the invaluable contributions of those who have driven India’s progress and motivating the next generation to continue this legacy of innovation and progress.

National Technology Day 2024 Theme

The theme for every year is different for the day. For the year 2024 the theme is: ‘From Schools to Startups: Igniting Young Minds to Innovate’ is a remarkable initiative aimed at inspiring and motivating the young generation to take an interest in technology.

The idea behind this theme is to encourage the youth to be innovative and creative, which can help them become successful entrepreneurs in the future.