May 11 is observed as National Technology Day every year to mark the anniversary of the Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998.

The Indian government officially declared 11 May as National Technology Day to commemorate the first of the five nuclear tests that were carried out on 11 May 1998.

The day also commemorates the achievements of engineers and scientists in the field of science and technology. This year, India will be observing its 30th National Technology Day to highlight our country’s advancements in all fields of science and technology.

History

Pokhran nuclear tests were a series of five nuclear bomb test explosions that were conducted at the Indian Ary's Pokhran Test Range.

India successfully test-fired Operation Shakti missile on May 11, 1997, at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan, the first among the five nuclear tests in Pokhran.

Significance

The test was headed by an aerospace engineer and former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. 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. Since 1999, May 11 is observed as 'National Technology Day'.

The nuclear tests were carried out in collaboration with scientists from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMDER).

National Technology Day also marks the day when India's first-ever indigenous aircraft, Hansa-1, took flight.

On this day, the Ministry of Science and Technology, Technology Development Board (TDB) organises various seminars and workshops.

Theme of the Year

The National Technology Day 2021 theme is 'Science and Technology for a sustainable future'.