New Delhi, 11 May (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the successful Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998 as a landmark demonstration of India’s scientific capability and national self‑confidence, marking the occasion of National Technology Day. In a message on X, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the people of India and recalled the historic tests conducted at Pokhran in Rajasthan, which introduced the world to India’s remarkable technological prowess.

Prime Minister Modi stated that the 1998 Pokhran tests reflected India’s scientific excellence and unwavering commitment, underscoring the hard work and dedication of the country’s scientists. He noted that the tests were the result of sustained effort and innovation, and that the events of that day continue to serve as a benchmark for India’s growing capabilities in advanced technology and defence.

In his post, the Prime Minister emphasised that technology has now become a key pillar in the endeavour to build an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self‑reliant India). He highlighted that modern technology drives innovation, expands opportunities, and contributes to national development across sectors such as defence, space, digital infrastructure and healthcare.

PM Modi added that the government’s continuous focus lies on empowering talent, encouraging research and development, and creating solutions that advance the nation’s progress and help meet the aspirations of the people.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister also shared a Sanskrit subhashita (wise saying) that extols Agni (fire) as the supreme force of the heavens and the fundamental source of all energy on Earth. The verse describes how this elemental fire awakens immense power hidden within the subtlest particles of matter and transmits energy and motion throughout the entire universe.

In the same post, Prime Minister Modi wrote that the nuclear tests conducted on this day in 1998 at Pokhran introduced the world to India’s extraordinary strength and technological maturity. He hailed the scientists as the true architects of the country’s pride and self‑respect, saying:

“On this day in 1998, the nuclear tests at Pokhran introduced the world to India’s remarkable capability. Our scientists are the genuine builders of national glory and pride. Agnirmūrdhaḥ divaḥ kakutpātiḥ pṛthivyā ayam apāṁ retāṁsi jinvati.”

By linking the ancient symbolism of Agni with the modern scientific achievement at Pokhran, the Prime Minister framed the 1998 tests as both a strategic milestone and an enduring emblem of India’s scientific and technological self‑confidence.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar