India Emerges as a Global Leader in Science and Technology

India has established itself as a prominent player in global science and technology, achieving significant advancements in sectors such as space, defence, healthcare, and innovation. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, made this announcement during the inaugural session of the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan 2025 at the National Sanskrit University in New Delhi on December 26, 2025.

Singh credited this progress to “decisive policy support from the top political hierarchy,” emphasizing that since 2014, there has been an unprecedented focus on science, technology, and innovation, along with increased budgetary allocations. “Long-standing bottlenecks that previously constrained India’s scientific potential have been removed,” he stated.

The minister highlighted the impressive growth in India’s startup ecosystem, which has expanded from approximately 300 to nearly 200,000 startups in just under a decade. Additionally, India’s position in the Global Innovation Index has improved remarkably, climbing from 81 to 38. These advancements underscore India’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Progress in Space and Defence Sectors

India’s capabilities in space exploration and strategic technologies have gained international recognition, particularly through its lunar missions. These missions not only provided the first confirmed evidence of water on the Moon but also achieved the world’s first landing in the lunar south pole region. Singh noted that India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem has also flourished, with defence exports reaching Rs 23,662 crore. Indian-made systems are now supplied to nearly 100 countries, reflecting a growing international demand for the nation’s missile and defence technologies.

“India’s indigenous missile and defence technologies have demonstrated their credibility and reliability,” Singh remarked, highlighting the sustained investments in atomic energy, space, and advanced research over the past decade that have led to these achievements.

Healthcare and Innovations in Living Standards

In the realm of healthcare, Singh declared India a global leader in preventive healthcare and affordable medical solutions. The country has been instrumental in developing and sharing Covid-19 vaccines worldwide, alongside exporting medical devices and implants valued at billions of dollars annually. This has solidified India’s reputation in the international healthcare innovation ecosystem.

Moreover, Singh pointed out that science is increasingly applied to enhance living standards across the country. Initiatives such as smart cities, telemedicine, satellite-based communication, geotagging, and digital governance platforms illustrate how scientific advancements are directly improving everyday life for Indian citizens.

Major national missions focused on space, nuclear energy, deep ocean exploration, and Himalayan research are opening new avenues for economic growth and youth entrepreneurship. Singh concluded by reaffirming that India’s scientific community is no longer confined to laboratories; it is actively contributing to a better quality of life for its citizens.

India’s commitment to innovation and development across various sectors is transforming the nation into a global benchmark for scientific and technological advancement, positioning it for a dynamic future on the world stage.