PM Modi Celebrates Startup Boom at National Technology Day 2023

India has jumped from the 81st to the 40th position in the Global Innovation Index. Speaking at the inauguration of the National Technology Day 2023 program in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the remarkable growth of startups in the country, which has increased from around 100 in 2014 to a staggering one lakh recognized startups today. This has propelled India to become the third-largest startup ecosystem worldwide.

Powered by Yuva Shakti, India is making strides in the world of Start-Ups. pic.twitter.com/3KTIwCal5o

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 11, 2023

Impressive Growth Amid Economic Uncertainty

Despite global economic uncertainty, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that India's growth in innovation and entrepreneurship showcases the nation's potential and talent. He stressed the importance of stakeholders supporting and guiding the students embarking on the journey from school to startup. The Prime Minister also lauded the increase in tech incubation centers, which have risen from approximately 150 in 2014 to over 650 presently.

India's Path to Development and Self-Reliance

Prime Minister Modi outlined the goals for the nation, focusing on the year 2047 when India will celebrate its 100th anniversary of independence. He emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive ecosystem for growth, innovation, and Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to make India technologically advanced and self-reliant. Technology, he noted, should be seen as a tool for progress, not as a means of asserting dominance.

Acknowledging the role of the youth in shaping India's future, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the Atal Tinkering Labs, which have become innovation hubs with over 10,000 labs in 700 districts. More than 12 lakh innovation projects are underway in these labs, fostering scientific curiosity and providing practical experience. He stressed the duty of society to support and nurture the talented young minds who are striving to implement their ideas and innovations.

Harnessing Technology for Social Justice

The Prime Minister emphasized that technology, when used in a socially conscious manner, becomes a powerful tool for empowerment, promoting social justice and removing imbalances. He cited examples of technological advancements such as UPI, which has simplified digital transactions, and various government initiatives that use technology to provide essential services across different stages of life. These initiatives include online birth certificates, e-learning platforms, and portals for scholarships and medical treatment.

India's Leadership in Revolutionary Technologies

Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence in the ability of India's youth to lead the country in keeping pace with rapid technological changes and surpassing them. He highlighted areas such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, drone technology, and therapeutics where India must take the lead. The Prime Minister also mentioned initiatives in the defense and space sectors, promoting research and providing new opportunities for startups and the youth.

During the National Technology Day celebrations, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for projects worth more than Rs 5800 crores, including the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory and cancer hospitals and research centers in Hingoli, Jatni, and Mumbai. He also inaugurated various technological advancements in fields like nuclear medicine, radiation research, and cancer treatment facilities.

Focus on Atal Innovation Mission

This year's National Technology Day celebrations are dedicated to Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). The event showcases innovative projects, offers live tinkering sessions, and features engagement zones such as defense technology, augmented reality/virtual reality, textile, and life sciences. AIM aims to nurture the spirit of innovation among young minds and foster a culture of entrepreneurship.

National Technology Day, initiated by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1999, honors Indian scientists, engineers, and technologists who contributed to the nation's scientific and technological advancements. The annual