National Technology Day is Observed on 11th May

In India, National Technology Day is observed on 11th May every year to mark the anniversary of the Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998 and to celebrate the achievements and acknowledge the works of scientists, researchers, engineers, and teachers in the field of science and technology.

This year, India will be observing its 31st National Technology Day to highlight our country’s advancements in all fields of science and technology.

The theme of the National Technology Day for the year 2022 is 'Integrated Approach in Science & Technology for Sustainable Future'. It was announced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

The Indian government under then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee officially declared 11 May as National Technology Day in 1999 to commemorate the first of the five nuclear tests that were carried out on 11 May 1998.

On this day (May 11), in 1998, an aerospace engineer and former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam successfully conducted the Pokhran nuclear tests. Following the success of the operation, then Prime Minister Atal Bihar Vajpayee declared India a nuclear state, making it the sixth country to join the 'nuclear club' of nations. Also on this day, India's first-ever indigenous aircraft - ‘The Hansa-1’, took flight for the first time.

The day is celebrated by giving awards to individuals and industries in the field of science and technology by the respective ministry and various seminars, workshops were organized.

   Important points for the exam:

• Every year, National Technology Day is observed on 11th May to mark the anniversary of the Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998.
• The day is also observed to commemorate the achievements of engineers and scientists in the field of science and technology. 
• The year 2022 marks the 31st edition of the day to highlight our country’s advancements in all fields of science and technology.
• The theme fixed for the year 2022 is ‘Integrated Approach in Science & Technology for Sustainable Future'.
• The Pokhran Nuclear test was successfully conducted on 11 May 1998 by the former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. With this success, India entered as the sixth country in the 'nuclear club' of nations.

   Facts to know:

• Union Minister of Science and Technology: Dr. Jitendra Singh.
• Tenure of former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: 2002-2007.
• Code name of India’s first nuclear test: Smiling Buddha (in May 1974).