essay on indian technology

Achievements of India in Science and Technology

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Science and Technology

Table of Contents

Science and Technology in Ancient India

Science and technology in medieval india, science and technology in modern india, achievements of india in space, achievements of india in nuclear sciences, achievements of india in defence, emerging technologies in india.

Prelims: General Science

Mains: Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology; Indigenization of Technology and Developing New Technology.

Advancements in technology have been the major cause for the development of a country as well as human civilization. India, recognised globally for its scientific rigour and potential, has been contributing to the fields of science and technology since ancient times as evident from the discovery of zero to the research in particle physics. Continuing striving towards science and technology in ancient and medieval times, India has been able to gain pace in scientific discoveries and innovations after independence. Indian scientists have won the most prestigious Nobel prize in all three areas of Science.

Today, India is making progress in more advanced technology such as tokamak, neutrino, gravitational waves, scramjets, sending human missions into space, and emerging technologies.

India's history of scientific discovery and development dates back to the Vedic period . Aryabhatta , the famous mathematician invented ‘zero’. The concept of squares, circles, triangles, fractions, algebraic formulae, and astronomy have all had their origins in Vedic literature.

• The complex layout of Harappantowns with underground drainage, civil sanitation, hydraulic engineering, and air-cooling architecture, as well as the presence of the Iron Pillar in Delhi, demonstrate that India's indigenous technologies were very sophisticated.
• Rig Veda describes the concepts of astronomy and metaphysics.
• Ancient India was a pioneer in developing the technology for producing rust-free iron. Called Wootz steel, it was traded to Europe and the Middle East for sword making.
• Many scholars like Charaka and Sushruta have made invaluable contributions to Ayurveda, as found in ancient manuscripts.

Learn in Detail:  Science and Technology in Ancient India

Although at a slower pace, the medieval period also witnessed the growth of science and technology in India.

• Narayana Pandit is a well-known figure for his contributions to Mathematics - Ganitakaumudi and Bijaganitavatamsa.
• Gangadhara wrote three famous treaties that gave rules for trigonometric terms - Lilavati Karamdipika, Suddhantadipika, and Lilavati Vyakhya.
• In the Mughal period, Faizi translated Bhaskara’s Bijaganit.
• In the thirteenth century, Hamsadeva compiled Mrga-paksi-sastra, a work in the field of biology. This provides a general, though not always scientific, account of some hunting animals and birds.
• Jahangir, in his work Tuzuk-ijahangiri recorded his observations and experiments on breeding and hybridization.
• Two notable treatises - Siddhayoga by Vrinda(around 975 CE) and Chakradatta by Chakrapani Dutta (around 1050 CE) were written in this period.
• Mercury and sulphur were the materials on which extensive research was carried out in 700 CE- 1300 CE .
• Nagarjuna, the author of Rasaratnaakara stands pre-eminent among the Indian rasavaadins during the medieval India.
• Rasaarnava and Rasaratnasamcchaya of Vaagbhata are two of the many important texts after Rasaratnaakara.
• The work Ain-i-Akbari discusses the regulation of Akbar's Perfume Office.
• Mehendra Suri who was a court astronomer of Firoz Shah Tughlak, developed “Yantraja”, an astronomical instrument.
• Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh-II set up the five astronomical observatories in Delhi, Ujjain, Varanasi, Mathura, and Jaipur.
• Ali-bin Rabban wrote Firdausu-Hikmat in which he summarised the system of Greek medicine and Indian medical knowledge.
• The Tibbi Aurangzebi is based on Ayurvedic sources.

At the dawn of the twentieth century, great strides were made by Indian scientists. The innate ability to perform creatively in science came to be backed by institutional setups and strong state support after the country’s independence in 1947.

India’s Contribution to Physics

Since the early 20th century, many physicists of India have contributed to Physics.

• He invented the crescograph, through which he measured plant response to various stimuli and hypothesised that plants can feel pain, understand affection, etc.
• CV Raman : He is known for his work on the scattering effect of light. His finding is called ‘Raman Effect’ for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics, in 1930.
• Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar : He was an Indian-American astrophysicist awarded the 1983 Nobel Prize for Physics for his theoretical studies of the structure and evolution of the stars.
• He is best known for providing the foundation of Bose-Einstein statistics and developing the theory of Bose-Einstein condensates.
• International Neutrino Observatory (INO) : The INO project broadly aims to create an outstanding underground laboratory in India for non-accelerator-based high energy and nuclear physics research.
• CERN's: Indian scientists at CERN contributed to the construction of a large hadron collider and other experiments such as ALICE and CMS experiment. 
• Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) - India : It is a mega-science project in Astronomy and the scientific goals of the project are in the area of fundamental physics.

India’s Contribution to Chemistry

• Prafulla Chandra Ray: He was regarded as the ‘Father of Chemical Science in India and contributed to inorganic and organic nitrites and organic thio compounds.
• Sir Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar : He played an immense role in the constitution of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and did considerable work in applied and industrial chemistry.
• CNR Rao : He is well-known for his work in structural and solid-state chemistry. He has made contributions in chemical spectroscopy, surface chemistry, molecular structure and high-temperature superconductivity.

India’s Contribution to Life Sciences

• Several model systems such as E. coli, fruit fly (Drosophila), and C. elegans, had been established, to significantly enhance knowledge of complex biological problems.
• The most outstanding contributions were the discovery of exotoxins and the atomic structural model of collagen.
• DNA Fingerprinting: DNA fingerprinting in India came into existence in 1988. Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology scientists developed the technique and made it available for use, making India the third country to develop its own DNA fingerprinting probe.
• Har Gobind Khorana : He was a Nobel Prize-winning Indian American biochemist who showed the order of nucleotides in nucleic acids , which carry the genetic code of the cell and control the cell's synthesis of proteins.
• His discovery of collagen's triple helical structure was important for the understanding of peptide structure.
• He demonstrated how ribosomes react to various chemicals using a 3D technique.

India’s space journey started with the establishment of the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) in 1962, later renamed the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. Key highlights of India’s space endeavours:

• First Satellite: Aryabhata was India’s first satellite which was launched on April 19th, 1975 using Russia’s Kosmos-3M launch vehicle.
• Its success paved the way for advanced launch vehicle projects including the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV), Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and LVM3.
• Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first moon mission, launched in 2008.
• Chandrayaan-2 was India's first attempt to soft-land on the Moon which was launched in 2019 by GSLV MkIII-M1.
• With the successful launch of Chandrayaan-3 in 2023, India became the first country to successfully land a spacecraft near the lunar south pole.
• After Roscosmos, NASA, and the European Space Agency, India became the fourth space agency in the world to reach Mars orbit.
• It also made India the first country in the world to reach Martian orbit in its maiden attempt.
• 104 Satellites in a single flight: PSLV-C37 successfully launched the 714 kg Cartosat-2 Series Satellite along with 103 co-passenger satellites in 2017.
• Aditya-L1 Mission: In September 2023 India launched the Aditya-L1 mission, the first space-based Indian mission to study the Sun.
• Gaganyaan: The Gaganyaan Mission is an ongoing project in India to send a three-person crew to a 400 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
• Reusable Launch Vehicle - Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD): It is one of ISRO's most technologically challenging projects aimed at developing critical technologies for a fully reusable launch vehicle to enable low-cost access to space. 
• Cryogenic Technology: In 2003, the Indian space agency successfully tested its first cryogenic engine . India is now one of only six countries to have developed their own cryogenic engines.
• Scramjet Engines: A scramjet engine is an improvement over the ramjet engine as it efficiently operates at hypersonic speeds and allows supersonic combustion .

India made the formal beginning of its programme on nuclear energy by establishing the Atomic Energy Commission in 1948 and the Atomic Energy Establishment in 1957, which was later renamed as Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC).

• Dr. Homi Bhabha  formulated India's three-stage nuclear power programme in the 1950s.
• Apsara, the first nuclear fission reactor, was developed in 1956. Subsequently, nuclear power stations and other reactors have been developed in India.
• Currently, India has 23 operational fission reactors, totalling 6780 MWe in installed capacity.
• As for fusion energy, India has its own  Tokamak  programmes and also is a member of the ITER  project.
• India conducted an underground nuclear explosion at Pokhran in 1974, codenamed “Smiling Buddha.
• Pokhran-II: In 1998, five nuclear devices (including thermonuclear bombs) were successfully detonated.

India is one of the strongest military forces in the world.

• Some of the major defence manufacturing companies in India are Bharat Earth Movers Ltd. (BEML), Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL), and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL).
• Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), began on July 26, 1983. The program resulted in the development of a slew of missiles, including the strategic Agni Integrated Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM), the tactical Prithvi, the Akash and Trishul surface-to-air missiles, and the Nag anti-tank guided missile.
• BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile system capable of being launched from land, sea, or air.
• Talk about Hypersonic technology (cruise and ballistic both), using scramjets. 
• The first indigenous aircraft carrier Indian Naval Ship (INS) Vikrant was commissioned in the Indian Navy in 2022.
• Project-75 (I): Project-75(I) is a follow-up project of Project 75 conceived in 1997. It is a military acquisition initiative that aims to procure diesel-electric attack submarines with fuel cells and an Air-Independent Propulsion System (AIP) for the Indian Navy.
• This places India in the league of the few countries that can design, construct, and operate Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarines (SSBN).
• Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): The Indian government is focusing on innovative solutions to empower the country's defence and security through the 'Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)' program.
• DRDO  enhanced the technological capabilities of the Indian industry, transforming India into a hub of advanced defence technologies and developing state-of-the-art defence equipment and systems.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL): Indigenization with the primary objective of achieving Make in India and lowering dependence on foreign countries, especially for critical items is one of the key thrust areas of HAL.

India is also excelling in cutting-edge technologies such as 5G , artificial intelligence, blockchain, augmented and virtual reality, machine learning and deep learning , robots, natural language processing, and so on. The Emerging Technologies Division of MeitY is in charge of encouraging and promoting the use of cutting-edge technologies throughout the country.

• PARAM Shivay, the first supercomputer assembled indigenously, followed by PARAM Shakti, PARAM Brahma, PARAM Yukti, and PARAM Sanganak.
• Quantum Computing: Many programs are geared towards training students and researchers in quantum computing, including the National Mission for Quantum Frontier and others such as the National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications, and Quantum Computing Applications Lab.
• Blockchain Technology: The National Blockchain Framework is a national-level infrastructure for blockchain which includes blockchain-as-a-service, geographically distributed nodes, creating awareness, and developing human resources, among other initiatives.
• Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology: Launched in 2023, it is a framework agreed upon by India and the U.S. for cooperation on critical and emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, semiconductors , quantum computing and wireless telecommunication.

PYQs on Achievements of India in Science and Technology

Question 1: India is an important member of the ‘International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor’. If this experiment succeeds, what is the immediate advantage of India?

• It can use thorium in place of uranium for power generation.
• It can attain a global role in satellite navigation
• It can drastically improve the efficiency of its fission reactors in power generation
• It can build fusion reactors for power generation

Answer: (d)

Question 2: Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What is the advantage of a fast breeder reactor programme in India? (UPSC Mains 2019)

Question 3: Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic development? (UPSC Mains 2016)

FAQs on Achievements of India in Science and Technology

What are the achievements of india in science and technology during the ancient period.

The history of scientific discoveries and development in India dates back to the Vedic era. Invention of ‘zero’, concept of squares, rectangles, algebraic formulae, concepts of astronomy and metaphysics, discovery of Iron and steel are some of the achievements of ancient India in Science and Technology.

What are the contributions of India in the field of biotechnology?

India is one of the biggest suppliers of low-cost drugs and vaccines in the world. For example, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw founded the biopharmaceutical firm Biocon, in 1978. The firm has successfully forayed into the lucrative U.S. market. The company has Asia's largest insulin factory in Malaysia's Johor region.

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Digital india essay in english for students, digital india essay in english.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, technology has permeated every aspect of our lives. Recognizing this transformative potential, the Indian government launched the ambitious Digital India initiative in 2015. This flagship program aims to bridge the digital divide, empower citizens through access to technology, and transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

The Vision of Digital India :-

Digital India envisions a future where technology is seamlessly integrated into every facet of Indian life. It aims to achieve this vision by focusing on three key pillars:

• Digital Infrastructure:  Creating robust and ubiquitous digital infrastructure across the nation, including high-speed internet connectivity, affordable data plans, and a strong e-governance framework.
• Digital Literacy:  Equipping citizens with the digital skills and knowledge necessary to effectively utilize technology for their personal and professional development.
• Delivering Services Digitally:  Transforming the way government services are delivered to citizens, making them accessible, convenient, and transparent through online platforms and mobile applications.

100 Words Digital India Essay :-

Digital India represents a bold initiative by the Indian government to leverage the power of technology for social and economic transformation. It aims to connect the unconnected, empower the marginalized, and foster innovation across various sectors. By prioritizing digital infrastructure development, promoting digital literacy, and delivering services electronically, Digital India seeks to create a more inclusive, informed, and prosperous nation.

200 Words Digital India Essay :-

Digital India has embarked on a transformative journey towards a digitally empowered India. Key achievements include:

• Digital infrastructure expansion:  Over 1.3 billion Indians have access to mobile phones, and over 800 million have internet connectivity. The government has also launched ambitious projects like BharatNet to provide high-speed internet access to villages.
• Digital literacy initiatives:  Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan have empowered millions of rural citizens with basic digital skills, increasing their access to information and opportunities.
• E-governance platforms:  Initiatives like Aadhaar, DigiLocker, and the UMANG app have revolutionized the way citizens access government services, making them more efficient, transparent, and accessible.

Impact and Future of Digital India :-

Digital India has had a significant impact on various sectors, including:

• Education:  Online learning platforms and digital tools have enhanced access to quality education for students across the country.
• Healthcare:  Telemedicine and e-health initiatives have improved access to healthcare services, especially in remote areas.
• Financial inclusion:  Digital wallets and mobile banking platforms have facilitated financial inclusion,empowering individuals and businesses.
• Startups and innovation:  The digital ecosystem has fostered a vibrant startup ecosystem, leading to innovation and economic growth.

Looking ahead, Digital India has the potential to further empower citizens, bridge the digital divide, and propel India into a global leader in the digital age. However, challenges remain, including lack of digital literacy in certain sections of society, rural-urban disparities in access to technology, and cybersecurity concerns.

By addressing these challenges and continuously adapting to evolving technologies, Digital India can continue to transform India into a digitally empowered and inclusive nation, paving the way for a brighter future for all its citizens.

FAQs – Digital India Essay in English

1. what is the digital india initiative.

Ans – The Digital India initiative is a flagship program of the Indian government launched in 2015. It aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy by focusing on three key pillars:

• Digital infrastructure
• Digital literacy
• Delivering services digitally

2. What are the goals/ objectives of Digital India?

Ans – The key goals/ objectives of Digital India include:

• Connecting the unconnected: Bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all Indians have access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity.
• Empowering citizens: Equipping individuals with digital skills and knowledge to navigate the digital world and participate actively in the economy.
• Transforming governance: Making government services more efficient, transparent, and accountable through digital platforms.
• Fostering innovation: Creating a conducive environment for startups and innovation to flourish in the digital space.
• Driving inclusive growth: Utilizing technology to promote inclusive economic development and empower marginalized communities.

3. How has Digital India impacted various sectors in India?

Ans – Digital India has had a significant impact on various sectors, including:

• Education:  Digital learning platforms and online resources have enhanced access to quality education for students across the country.
• Healthcare:  Telemedicine initiatives like eSanjeevani have improved access to healthcare services,especially in remote areas.
• Economy:  Digital payments platforms and e-commerce have boosted economic growth and job creation.
• Governance:  E-governance initiatives have led to improved transparency, accountability, and efficiency in government services.
• Social inclusion:  Digital literacy programs and online platforms have empowered individuals and communities, promoting social inclusion.

4. What are the challenges faced by Digital India?

Ans – Some key challenges faced by Digital India include:

• Bridging the digital divide in rural areas and ensuring affordable internet access for all.
• Addressing data privacy and security concerns.
• Protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.
• Ensuring equitable access to technology and digital literacy for all segments of society.