Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has instructed young Indians to develop a keen interest in science and technology and take advantage of the advanced infrastructure being built in the country. Talking at the opening of Vigyan Vaibhav 2025, a two-day science and technology festival in Hyderabad, he showed the growing importance of new-age technologies for the nation’s security and progress.
He explained that modern warfare is shifting from traditional hardware-based methods to software-driven approaches. He showcased that India must lead in transformative fields like Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, Machine Learning and Clean Technology. Quoting former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, he reminded the audience that science should always be used for the betterment of society.
The Defence Minister reassured that the government is committed to using modern technology to strengthen national security. He highlighted that young minds should think critically and innovate to overcome technological challenges. He linked this goal to Viksit Bharat 2047, a vision for India to emerge as a global leader in innovation and technology by 2047.
Singh also spoke about the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to make science education in India more dynamic by encouraging creativity, logical thinking, and innovation. This year’s National Science Day theme, ‘Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat’, aligns with this vision, showcasing India's ambition to become a world leader in scientific progress.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who also spoke at the event, praised Hyderabad as a center of scientific excellence and technological advancement. He encouraged students attending Vigyan Vaibhav 2025 to dream big and embrace innovation with enthusiasm.
A large exhibition was a key highlight of the event, attracting over 30,000 students and featuring more than 200 stalls displaying cutting-edge defence and aerospace technologies developed by DRDO and leading Indian industries. The exhibition aimed to inspire students to take up careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), nurturing future scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs who will contribute to India’s technological growth.
The event was attended by several key figures, including DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Aeronautical Society of India President Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, and senior officials from the defence and aerospace industries.
Vigyan Vaibhav, jointly organized by DRDO, AeSI, and the Kalam Institute of Youth Excellence, celebrates National Science Day in honor of Sir C.V. Raman’s contributions to science. The event provides a platform for policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and young innovators to discuss and present advancements that will shape India’s future. As the nation moves toward self-reliance and global leadership, scientific excellence and innovation remain at the heart of its progress. (PR)