Science is successful only when it benefits society: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits a startup exhibition stall and interacts with an innovator at the inauguration of Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026 at Bharat Mandapam on October 27, 2026 | Photo Credit: ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (October 27, 2026) said science succeeds only when it travels from the laboratory to the land and improves people’s lives.Addressing the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC), he said it must not become “merely a forum for discussion” but should deliver measurable outcomes.Mr. Modi said India’s science and technology story has long been one of catching up with other countries, but in the 21st century the country has emerged as a leader in scientific and technological developments. He said, “The discovery of zero showed that India has a culture of discovery. Chandrayaan’s landing near the lunar south pole, Mangalyaan’s success on the first attempt, and the vaccines developed during the COVID-19 pandemic are examples of this.”The audience at the conclave comprised three Nobel Laureates, top technocrats of India’s scientific establishment, startup founders and scientists from both India and abroad.Mr. Modi said a country’s technological capabilities depend on its research. He said efforts are underway to “speed up” the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).Referring to research funding, he cited a commitment of ₹1 lakh crore, including ₹12,000 crore for taking research from the laboratory to the market, with private investors partnering equally. He also referred to new commitments of ₹24,000 crore.The number of patents filed in India had risen from about 50,000 to 1.5 lakh, Mr. Modi said, describing this as evidence of a strengthening culture of innovation rather than merely an increase in number.“Important question”On Artificial Intelligence (AI), he posed what he called an “important question” about how to exercise scientific judgement in the age of AI. “Science works by questioning paradigms and looking at problems with fresh eyes,” he said. “AI can perform routine tasks quickly and raise productivity, but should not limit scientists’ thinking or independent thought, and its answers must meet the accuracy standards of scientists.”Referring to the birth anniversary of nuclear scientist Homi J. Bhabha on October 30, Mr. Modi said a developed India will need large quantities of nuclear energy. He noted that the 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) has reached first criticality, strengthening the country’s long-term energy position.He also pointed to Indian space start-ups, a rocket made in India that placed a satellite in orbit on its first attempt, and the country’s satellite docking capability. Indian-made AI chips are reaching other countries, an AI model has been built domestically, and work is underway on battery technology based on Indian raw materials, he said. The needs of sectors ranging from nuclear energy to space to AI and semiconductors differ, he said, but India’s emerging technologies are rising together.Describing India as a young country with vision and imagination, he said it needs a generation capable of leading in technology. He summed up the guiding principle as: “We will do it.” Published - October 27, 2026 09:02 pm IST