India’s National Technology Day on May 11 celebrates the country’s technological advancements. This day marks the date the technology industry in India earned several monumental achievements by breaking into the elite group of nations with nuclear weapons, conducting the successful flight of their first indigenous aircraft, and performing a successful test firing of the Trishul missile.
History of National Technology Day
We can all agree that technological advancements have been some of mankind’s greatest achievements. It has definitely made our lives easier, more efficient, and more productive, and we are always thankful for that.
The people of India showed their thanks when they declared May 11 as National Technology Day in 1999, following their grand achievements in the field on that day, the previous year.
On May 11, 1998, the country conducted three successful nuclear tests at the Indian Army’s Pokhran Test Range under Operation Shakti. Two more nuclear tests were conducted on May 13, led by late President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, which made India an official member of the elite club of nuclear power nations.
However, that was not all India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation achieved. On the same day, they also tested their first indigenous aircraft, Hansa-3, and conducted a successful test firing of the Trishul missile.
The Prime Minister at the time, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, declared May 11 as a day of significant achievement for the country, and National Technology Day was observed for the first time on May 11, 1999. Since then, the Technology Development Board has been honoring scientists and engineers and their technological innovations that have added to the growth of India.
National Technology Day timeline
Nuclear physicist Homi Bhabha establishes the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research for the harnessing of nuclear energy.
India decides to start building nuclear weapons.
India conducts its first-ever nuclear weapons test.
India conducts its first successful nuclear weapons test.
National Technology Day FAQs
Why is National Technology Day celebrated in India?
May 11 is celebrated annually to remember the day India conducted and succeeded in three nuclear tests.
Who coined the National Technology Day in India?
Former Indian Prime Minister, the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee coined the term to celebrate the contributions made by Indian scientists.
What country has the most nuclear weapons?
Russia and the United States continue to possess the most extensive nuclear arsenals. The former has 6,255 warheads while the U.S. has 5,550.
How To Observe National Technology Day
Read about their technological history
Today is the perfect day to learn about the history of India’s technology industry. This is just one of the numerous feats India has achieved in this field, so learn all you can about it today.
Learn more about nuclear weapons
While nuclear weapon advancements continue, they can also be used for deadly purposes. Conduct your own research on the topic to learn more — knowledge is power.
Start a home tech project
There is no better way to celebrate large tech achievements than by starting one of your own. Create a small-scale technology project you could do from the comfort of your home. Make it even more interesting by getting your friends and family to join in on the fun and learning.
5 Facts About Nuclear Weapons
Nine countries have them
According to security experts, nine countries now have nuclear weapons: the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel.
Some of them are still missing
According to the Brookings Institution, 11 nuclear bombs were lost in accidents and the U.S. has still not recovered them.
They cost a fortune
In the 21st century, around $40 billion a year, or 10% of the annual U.S. military budget is spent on nuclear weapons.
A nuclear umbrella
The United States provides a ‘nuclear umbrella’ or guarantee of defense to its non-nuclear allies.
They cause a lot of radioactive waste
The radioactive waste created during the manufacturing of an average nuclear bomb includes 2,000 tons of uranium mining waste, 4 tons of depleted uranium, and 50 cubic meters of ‘low-level’ waste.
Why National Technology Day Is Important
It’s a symbol of technological advancement
National Technology Day shows us the power of technology. It symbolizes all the things that can be achieved with the proper utilization of technology. This encourages other technological endeavors.
It’s an important day in India’s history
This day is a monumental part of India’s history. It highlights their great achievements and points to an even more successful future.
It encourages research
Innovative advancements such as these further encourage development in the science, research, engineering, and technology fields. A success story like this inspires more growth and development in the field.
National Technology Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 11 | Sunday |
| 2026 | May 11 | Monday |
| 2027 | May 11 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | May 11 | Thursday |
| 2029 | May 11 | Friday |
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