2023 - National Technology Day | Commemorative Coin

The 7th commemorative coin of 2023 was released to mark the National Technology Day - 25th Anniversary of Operation Shakti.

National Technology Day is celebrated in India every year on 11 May to honour the nation’s remarkable achievements in science, technology, and innovation. The day holds a special place in the country’s history, commemorating the successful nuclear tests conducted at Pokhran in 1998, which marked a defining moment in India’s technological and strategic progress. Declared by the Government of India, National Technology Day not only celebrates this milestone but also recognizes the contributions of scientists, engineers, innovators, and technologists who continually push the boundaries of knowledge to strengthen the nation.

The Pokhran tests, code-named “Operation Shakti,” demonstrated India’s scientific maturity and self-reliance in critical technologies. Led by eminent scientists such as Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and the team at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the tests established India as a responsible nuclear power and ensured greater national security. This accomplishment symbolized the country’s determination to advance indigenous capabilities despite global challenges and technological barriers.

Since then, National Technology Day has evolved into a broader celebration of India’s technological journey. On this day, institutions, research laboratories, technology parks, universities, and industry bodies organize seminars, exhibitions, and discussions to highlight scientific innovation across diverse fields. Breakthroughs in space research, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, clean mobility, and digital technologies are showcased to inspire young minds and promote a culture of curiosity and invention.

A hallmark of the day is the recognition of outstanding contributions through awards presented by the Technology Development Board (TDB). These awards honour startups, industries, entrepreneurs, and scientists who have developed pioneering products or processes with potential for societal impact. Such recognition encourages innovation and strengthens India’s goal of emerging as a global technology leader.

National Technology Day also serves as a reminder of the transformative role technology plays in everyday life. From digital payments and healthcare advancements to agricultural automation and climate-resilient solutions, technology drives both economic growth and social development. The day emphasizes the importance of continued investment in research and development, capacity-building, and fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

In recent years, India’s growing digital footprint, successful space missions such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, expansion of indigenous manufacturing, and leadership in renewable energy have further demonstrated the country’s technological capabilities. National Technology Day celebrates these successes while encouraging the next generation to contribute to the nation’s scientific and technological aspirations.

Ultimately, National Technology Day stands as a tribute to India's innovators and visionaries and reflects the nation’s commitment to progress driven by knowledge, ingenuity, and self-reliance. It inspires a collective resolve to harness technology for a better, more sustainable, and more empowered future.

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