National Technology Day is observed on May 11 in India. The day is observed to commemorate the scientific and technological achievements of Indian scientists and engineers. It was first observed on May 11, 1999.
Pkhran II
May 11 was the day when Indian conducted its successful nuclear test in Pokhran. India's nuclear tests named Pokhran II consisted of five nuclear bomb test explosions which was initiated on 11 May 1998 under the code name "Operation Shakti". It was led by Dr. APJ Abuld Kalam. the "missile man of India' and the "people's president".
India's first successful nuclear bomb test was on 18 May 1974 at Pokhran, which was code named "Smiling Budha".
HANSA- III and Thrishul
The day also marks the first flight of India's indigenous aircraft HANSA-III, developed air craft by National Aerospace Laboratories. Also India performed a successful test firing of the Trishul missile on May 11, 1998.
Atal Bihari Bajpayee announced May 11 as National Technology Day in 1999. India celebrates the day by honoring the individuals and organisations who contributed to the nation's developments in the field of science and technology by through National Awards. Ministry of Science and Technology organises various events and competitions in this connection every year.
National Technology Day Themes
Every year a theme is selected for National Technology Day. In 2020 a conference was organised by the Ministry of Science and Technology on the theme" ‘Rebooting the Economy through Science, Technology and Research Translations titled RESTART’.
- 2019: “Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future”
- 2018: “Commercialising Indigenous Technologies: Journey from Beachside to Business Programme”
- 2017: “Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth”
- 2016: “Technology enablers of Startup India”
Further Reading
Pokhran II - Wikipedia
Smiling Budha - Wikipedia