On the occasion of National Technology Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of technological self-reliance as a cornerstone of India's strategic autonomy and economic growth. In a speech delivered at the Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, the Prime Minister lauded the contributions of scientists, engineers, and innovators who have propelled India's technological capabilities to new heights.

National Technology Day, observed annually on May 11, commemorates the successful nuclear tests conducted by India in 1998, which demonstrated the country's prowess in nuclear technology. Since then, the day has been a platform to recognize achievements in science and technology and to reaffirm the nation's commitment to technological innovation.

In his address, PM Modi outlined the government's vision for an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) through the fostering of indigenous technologies. He underscored the pivotal role of technology in driving economic progress, enhancing national security, and improving the quality of life for citizens. The Prime Minister highlighted several key initiatives and achievements that reflect India's growing self-reliance:

- **Digital Public Infrastructure**: India's digital transformation, including the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Aadhaar, and the direct benefit transfer system, has become a global model for digital governance and financial inclusion.

- **Space Technology**: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved remarkable milestones, such as the Chandrayaan missions and the Mars Orbiter Mission, demonstrating India's capability in space exploration at a fraction of global costs.

- **Defense Technology**: The development of indigenous defense systems like the Tejas fighter jet, the Arjun main battle tank, and the INS Arihant nuclear submarine underscores India's stride toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

- **Healthcare and Biotechnology**: India's swift response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the development of vaccines such as Covaxin and Covshield, and the production of generic pharmaceuticals, showcases its prowess in biotechnology and healthcare innovation.

- **Renewable Energy**: India has emerged as a global leader in renewable energy, with ambitious targets for solar and wind energy capacity, aligning with its commitment to combating climate change.

PM Modi also launched several new initiatives aimed at bolstering the technology ecosystem. These include the 'National Hydrogen Mission' to promote green hydrogen production, the 'National Quantum Mission' for developing quantum computing capabilities, and the 'Innovation, R&D and Entrepreneurship Policy' to foster a culture of innovation among startups and academia.

The Prime Minister called upon the private sector, academia, and the research fraternity to collaborate closely with the government in building a robust technological infrastructure. He stressed the need for increased investment in research and development, particularly in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and 5G technology.

As part of the celebrations, awards were presented to individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions in technology development and innovation. The event also featured exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge technologies from various sectors, including defense, agriculture, and healthcare.

In conclusion, PM Modi's message on National Technology Day reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering a self-reliant India through technological excellence. The emphasis on indigenous development not only bolsters national security and economic growth but also positions India as a global leader in technology and innovation. As the nation continues to harness the potential of its human capital and technological advancements, the vision of an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' appears increasingly attainable.