In a prestigious event that marked the commencement of the 25th National Technology Day, the Prime Minister of India unveiled an ambitious program featuring several scientific and technological projects worth over Rs 5,800 crore. Spanning from May 11th to May 14th, the event centred on the theme “School to Start-ups – igniting young minds to innovate.”
Flagship Projects of National Technology Day 2023
Highlighting this year’s event were key projects such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory – India (LIGO-India) set up in Hingoli, the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Jatni, Odisha, and the Platinum Jubilee Block of Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai.
May 11th is a significant date in India’s history, commemorating the triumphant Pokhran Nuclear Testing. During his address, the PM emphasized the role of technology in defence and introduced Innovations for Defense Excellence (iDEX). He also underscored India’s aim to achieve self-reliance in the defence sector.
Boosting the Space Sector
Major advancements in India’s space sector such as SSLV and PSLV orbital platforms were highlighted. The PM stressed the importance of providing opportunities for youth and start-ups in this rapidly evolving domain.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain 2023 Campaign
The National Water Mission, under the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, organised a workshop at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The program was targeted towards Central Nodal Officers and Technical Officers who would be visiting 150 water-stressed districts across India to ensure effective implementation of the “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” – 2023 campaign.
Addressing Water Stress Nationwide
The campaign represents the fourth in a series and targets 150 districts nationwide with an emphasis on water conservation, bore well recharge, watershed development, and afforestation. With a theme “Source Sustainability for Drinking Water,” the campaign will run from March 4th to November 30th, 2023.
Shooting Stars at the ISSF World Cup
At the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan, Sarabjot Singh and TS Divya emerged as champions in the mixed team 10m air pistol event. They secured the gold medal, defeating Damir Mikec and Zorana Arunovic of Serbia.
The Inaugural National MSME Council Meet
The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) recently hosted the inaugural meeting of the National MSME Council in New Delhi. The council has been established to foster coordination between central ministries and departments, encourage collaboration between central and state governments, and monitor progress of reforms in the MSME sector.
The RAMP Program
Among key initiatives discussed was the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) program. Launched in June 2022, the program aims to enhance market access, credit availability, governance, and environmental sustainability for MSMEs.
