New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the real success of science is achieved when innovations in laboratories bring tangible changes in the lives of ordinary people. He said that India does not consider science and technology as a means of displaying power or conflict, but as a means of serving humanity.
Addressing the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 in New Delhi, the Prime Minister said that while the needs of various technology-based sectors may vary, they all convey the same message: India is rapidly strengthening its technological capabilities and self-reliance.
Science and technology are a means of serving humanity
Prime Minister Modi said that for a long time, there has been a perspective that views science and technology only as a means of power or conflict. However, India clearly believes that science and technology should be used to serve humanity.
He said, “The true success of science is realized when it reaches the ground from the lab and directly improves the lives of ordinary citizens.”
Solving people’s problems is the true power of innovation
Emphasizing the social role of innovation, the Prime Minister said that science and technology should not be evaluated solely on the basis of their advanced capabilities. It should also be seen to what extent they solve real-life problems and bring positive change in people’s lives.
He said that the success of a technology is not determined only by its advanced capabilities. Its true strength lies in how effectively it solves big problems and changes the lives of many people.
Emphasis on India’s scientific tradition and self-reliance
Referring to India’s rich scientific tradition, Prime Minister Modi said that the country’s culture has always been based on knowledge and discovery. He also mentioned the discovery of zero, the development of the number system, and India’s contribution to astronomy.
The Prime Minister said that India is moving forward based on this thinking and criteria. A country’s technological capabilities and ability to develop new technologies depend on its research.
He said that research is the strength that enables a country to find solutions to its problems and become self-reliant in critical technologies.