India Establishes Leadership in Science and Technology: Jitendra Singh

India has emerged as a significant player in the global arena of science and technology, establishing benchmarks in various sectors such as space, defence, healthcare, and innovation, according to Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology. Speaking at the inaugural session of the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan 2025 held at the National Sanskrit University on December 26, 2025, Singh attributed this transformation to decisive policy support and strategic initiatives from the country’s political leadership.

Over the past decade, Singh noted that India has experienced unprecedented focus on science, technology, and innovation. Since 2014, there has been significant budgetary support aimed at dismantling barriers that previously hampered the country’s scientific potential. He emphasized that while India has always had a talented workforce, it lacked the necessary enabling ecosystems and political will, which have now been decisively addressed.

Rise in Innovation and Defence Capabilities

The Minister highlighted the remarkable growth of India’s startup ecosystem, which has expanded from approximately 300-400 startups in 2014 to nearly 200,000 today. Additionally, India’s position in the Global Innovation Index has improved significantly, climbing from 81 to 38 in recent years. This growth reflects the country’s increasing prowess in innovation.

Singh pointed to India’s achievements in space technology, particularly its lunar missions, which have provided the first confirmed evidence of water on the Moon and marked the world’s first landing near the lunar south pole. The Minister also underscored the growing strength of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing sector, citing defence exports that have reached Rs 23,662 crore. Indian defence systems are now being supplied to nearly 100 countries, illustrating the global demand for India’s missile and defence technologies.

Advancements in Healthcare and Scientific Research

In the field of healthcare, Singh stated that India has positioned itself as a leader in preventive healthcare and affordable medical solutions. He remarked on the country’s role in developing and sharing Covid-19 vaccines with the world and highlighted the export of medical devices and implants valued at billions of dollars annually. This has garnered international trust and recognition for India’s healthcare innovation ecosystem.

Singh also noted the increasing impact of scientific research and publications emanating from India. He asserted that science in the country is no longer confined to laboratories; rather, it is actively contributing to enhancing the quality of life through initiatives like smart cities, telemedicine, satellite-based communication, geotagging, and digital governance platforms.

Major national missions focused on space exploration, nuclear energy, deep ocean research, and environmental studies are paving the way for new economic opportunities and fostering youth entrepreneurship. Singh concluded by emphasizing that India’s advancements in these areas are a testament to sustained investments in atomic energy, space exploration, and advanced research over the past decade.

The Minister’s comments reflect a broader vision for India’s role on the global stage, aiming to leverage its scientific and technological capabilities for national development and international collaboration.