PM Modi Calls on India to Lead Global Innovation in Emerging Technologies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged India to move beyond adopting emerging technologies and become a global leader in developing them, saying scientific research and innovation will be crucial to building a Viksit Bharat.

Addressing the three-day Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave in New Delhi, Modi highlighted India’s progress in Fast Breeder Reactor technology, including the achievement of first criticality by the 500-MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor a few months ago.

He stressed that scientific advancements must deliver practical benefits to citizens by improving healthcare, agriculture, education, employment and disaster preparedness. The Prime Minister also noted that the government has committed ₹12,000 crore to support market-ready laboratory technologies, matched by an equal investment from the private sector.

Highlighting India’s growing research ecosystem, Modi said annual patent filings had increased from fewer than 50,000 a decade ago to nearly 1.5 lakh last year. He emphasised self-reliance in critical technologies and called for innovations that serve both India and the world.

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said India’s scientific and technological capabilities were attracting global recognition, with thousands of experts and delegates participating in the conclave.

Modi also visited the exhibition featuring around 150 deep-tech startups. The event brings together scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry representatives and international experts to discuss 12 key areas, including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced materials, manufacturing, healthcare, energy, climate and ocean sciences.