National Science Day 2026: 'Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat'

OVERVIEW

National Science Day 2026 was celebrated across India on February 28, marking the discovery of the Raman Effect by C. V. Raman. The theme for this year, “Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat,” emphasized India’s strategic push toward self-reliance in advanced scientific research and innovation.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• Launch of India’s first indigenous quantum computer prototype for public research
• Recognition of young scientists for innovations in low-cost desalination technology
• Introduction of virtual reality-based science laboratories in 10,000 rural government schools
• Nationwide focus on promoting scientific awareness and innovation ecosystems
  
  

KEY DEVELOPMENTS

• The Department of Science and Technology (DST) announced a new fellowship for research in carbon capture and storage (CCS)
• Collaboration between IIT Madras and ISRO on deep-space communication technologies
• These advancements are expected to strengthen the Gaganyaan Mission
  
  

STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE

• Promotes indigenous innovation and reduces dependency on foreign technologies
• Addresses India’s intellectual property (IP) gap
• Strengthens initiatives like Make in India
• Boosts capabilities in defense, aerospace, and advanced scientific sectors
  
  

FUTURE OUTLOOK

• India aims to increase R&D expenditure to 2% of GDP by 2030
• Greater participation of women in STEM fields is expected to drive up to 30% of patent filings
• Public-private partnerships in space-tech startups will enhance global competitiveness
• India is likely to emerge as a leading hub for affordable innovation and satellite launch services