On May 11, 2024, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) marked National Technology Day at the INSA Auditorium in New Delhi. This year’s theme, “Sustainable Future,” brought together leading scientists, dignitaries, and innovators to pave the way towards a cleaner, greener, and more resilient India.
Key Highlights from the Event
Collaboration and Sustainability Goals
Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, emphasized the critical role of innovation in national development. He spoke about the necessity of fostering a culture of innovation and providing opportunities for everyone to contribute to the nation’s progress. Highlighting the importance of integrating technology into policy frameworks, Prof. Karandikar stressed collaboration with line ministries to achieve sustainability goals. With a vision for net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, he expressed his hopes for India to lead the world in sustainability efforts.
Electric Vehicles and Hydrogen Initiatives
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, highlighted several key initiatives:
- National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP)
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME)
These programs aim to promote electric vehicles (EVs) and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Prof. Sood also mentioned the National Hydrogen Mission, which focuses on substantial investments in green hydrogen production as part of India’s journey to a net-zero target by 2070. He also discussed the ongoing efforts in Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technologies, emphasizing their importance in India’s sustainability goals.
International Collaborations and Technological Advancements
Prof. Sood emphasized the importance of consultative groups and international partnerships, such as OPSA’s collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) on Zero Emission Trucking. These efforts aim to enhance India’s technological frameworks and policies for sustainable development.
Supporting Innovation and Startups
Prof. Karandikar highlighted the government’s initiatives in funding various research and development programs. Through schemes like NIDHI and Technology Development Board (TDB), the government is nurturing startups and fostering entrepreneurship. Significant investments have been made in clean and green technologies, such as water treatment and EVs, with TDB playing a pioneering role in supporting startups and MSMEs in these sectors.
Keynote Address and Future Technologies
Padmashri Prof. GD Yadav delivered a compelling keynote address advocating for sustainable solutions. He championed carbon removal and technological innovations to achieve net zero by 2070, highlighting the potential of white and green hydrogen. He proposed innovative ideas such as waste-to-wealth factories, hydrogenating plastic, and battery recycling.
TDB’s Role in Environmental Stewardship
Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary of TDB, underscored the importance of the projects funded by TDB in fostering environmental stewardship. These initiatives are crucial in driving technological advancements and sustainability efforts.
The Role of Technology in Sustainability
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President of INSA and Former Secretary, DST, spoke on the critical role of technology in achieving sustainability goals. He urged policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize technological advancements, stating, “Technology is a double-edged sword: it reduces inefficiency but can also drive increased consumption. To combat this, focus on EVs, green hydrogen, carbon capture, and energy-efficient habitats. Transitioning to renewable energy globally is essential to tackle climate change. Let’s ensure technology serves sustainability.”
Celebrating Young Innovators
The event also celebrated young scientific minds, featuring 23 students who represented 20 projects selected to compete in the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles, California. This platform, known as the “Olympics of Science Fairs,” unites over 1,600 young science enthusiasts from more than 60 countries, fostering idea exchange and showcasing cutting-edge science.
Conclusion
The National Technology Day 2024 underscored the importance of integrating technology into policy frameworks to drive progress. Through collaboration, innovation, and strategic investments, India is poised to lead the way in sustainability efforts and achieve its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2070.
