Every year on May 11, India celebrates National Technology Day to commemorate the nation’s technological strides. The date was chosen to honour the Pokhran-II nuclear tests of 1998, which demonstrated India’s scientific and technical capabilities. In addition, the successful test flight of Hansa-3, India’s first indigenous aircraft, and the test firing of the Trishul missile showcased innovation capabilities across the defence and civil aviation sectors.

Declared by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1999, the day has since evolved into a platform to highlight India’s achievements in science, engineering, and innovation. The 2026 theme, “Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth”, emphasises that technology must not only advance but also uplift society equitably. Within this framework, clean energy emerges as a cornerstone- linking sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. This Day is more than a commemoration–it is a call for action. Its importance lies in recognizing scientists and innovators for their achievements in critical sectors like space, biotechnology, and digital infrastructure.

It encourages youth to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers, thereby strengthening India’s innovation stream. It showcases the country’s policy priorities, such as self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India etc.). It positions India globally as a leader in clean energy, semiconductor manufacturing , and ar tif icial intelligence. By linking technology to inclusive growth , the day emphasises that innovation must serve social equity, environmental sustainability, and national resilience. Inclusive growth refers to economic progress that is broad-based, equitable, and sustainable.

It ensures that the benefits of........

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