From catch-up to global solutions: PM Modi highlights India’s tech and energy shift
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the emerging science, technology, and innovation conclave in New Delhi on Tuesday, October 27.
The three-day event, scheduled from October 27 to 29, brings together leading scientists, researchers, academicians, policymakers, industry leaders, startups and international experts to deliberate on emerging technologies and India’s key priorities in science, technology and innovation.
For decades, India’s approach to science and technology was largely about catching up with the rest of the world. Whenever a breakthrough occurred overseas, it took years to arrive here, where domestic teams would adopt it or make minor tweaks. That dynamic, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has fundamentally shifted.
Addressing the nation’s scientific trajectory, the Prime Minister noted that the country has moved past this reactive mindset. Pointing to the spirit driving the younger generation, he said, “The skill that India’s youth are pondering today, the confidence with which they are moving forward—it is inspiring enthusiasm.” He emphasised that the goal now is not merely adopting existing tools, but building solutions that serve both the country and the world.
A clear example of this transition was seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many nations struggled with access and supply chains, India developed its own indigenous vaccines, rolled out a nationwide immunisation drive, and supplied doses globally. For the Prime Minister, this operational scale reflects the practical confidence guiding modern India.
Heritage of science and self-reliance
India’s relationship with science is not new. Drawing a link to historical contributions like the discovery of zero, early numeral systems, and astronomy, PM Modi stressed that the country is simply taking its traditional scientific roots into a modern era.
“In the past, when something innovative happened in the world, it would reach us after a few years. We would adopt it or take it forward by making some improvements to it. But today, India’s 21st century is moving ahead with a new mindset and newfound confidence. Now our goal is to create new technology for India, for the world, for today, and for the tomorrows to come; to shape its direction; and to develop the power to provide solutions to the world’s problems,” he added.
Nuclear energy and the road to Viksit Bharat
Ahead of Dr Homi Jehangir Bhabha’s birth anniversary on October 30, the Prime Minister turned his focus toward the energy sector, describing nuclear power as a foundational requirement for building an economically developed nation.
Modi highlighted that reliance on imported nuclear fuel creates risks for long-term energy security. The PM pointed to domestic efforts in fast breeder reactor technology. He confirmed that the country’s 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) achieved first criticality a couple of months ago, marking a decisive domestic milestone in reducing import dependence and securing clean power for the future.