National Technology Day and India’s Nuclear Capability

Context

Recently, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of National Technology Day, which celebrates India’s scientific and technological achievements.

About National Technology Day

1. National Technology Day is celebrated annually on 11^th May to commemorate India’s major scientific and technological achievements.
2. The day marks the successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted under Operation Shakti in Rajasthan in 1998, led by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.
3. India conducted three underground nuclear tests on 11^th May and two more on 13^th May 1998, becoming the sixth country to demonstrate nuclear weapons capability.
4. On the same occasion, India also successfully test-fired the Trishul missile and test-flew the indigenous aircraft Hansa-3.
5. The day was declared by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1998 and has been observed since 1999.
6. It recognises the contributions of scientists, engineers and innovators, while the Technology Development Board presents awards for excellence in science and technology.
7. The theme for National Technology Day 2026 is “Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth”.