India’s Technological Growth: A Vision for the Future
India’s technological landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation. With a projected growth to reach between $300 billion and $350 billion in the next five years, the country is on the verge of becoming a global leader in technology. This was emphasized by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh during his address at the 16th Foundation Day of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on February 24, 2025. He highlighted the significance of innovation and entrepreneurship in this growth phase and urged students to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
The Rise of Start-ups and Innovation
India is witnessing an unprecedented surge in its start-up ecosystem. With over 125,000 start-ups and 110 unicorns, the nation has emerged as the third-largest start-up hub in the world. Shri Rajnath Singh stressed the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. He encouraged students to contribute to India’s technological advancements and to lead in key areas of research and development.
The emphasis on innovation is crucial for India to excel in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and digital technologies. IIT Mandi plays a pivotal role in this landscape, contributing significantly to the nation’s technological and scientific progress. The institution’s commitment to research and innovation aligns with the government’s vision of making India a global leader in technology. By nurturing a spirit of entrepreneurship, students can help shape the future of technology in India and beyond.
Strengthening National Security through Technology
In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the critical role of technology in national security. He urged IIT Mandi to enhance its contributions to defence-related technologies. The collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has already shown promise, but there is a need for further advancements. Areas such as AI-driven warfare, indigenous AI chip development, cybersecurity, and quantum technology are vital for strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
The Raksha Mantri also shared insights into India’s progress in achieving self-reliance in defence production. With 88% self-sufficiency in ammunition production and defence exports reaching approximately ₹23,000 crore in 2023-24, the government aims to double this figure by 2029. He called on students to focus on technological solutions that can bolster India’s defence capabilities and contribute to the nation’s self-reliance in this critical sector.
Embracing the Digital Revolution
India is in the midst of a digital revolution, with its telecom sector now the second-largest in the world. Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out the success of initiatives like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which has set global standards in digital transactions. He encouraged students to actively participate in the development of India’s digital ecosystem, emphasizing that technological innovation is central to the country’s growth story.
The Raksha Mantri urged students to excel in technological innovation to help make India a developed nation by 2047. He introduced the principles of Initiate, Improve, and Transform (IIT) as guiding concepts for students. By being bold in their pursuit of knowledge and resilient in the face of challenges, students can contribute significantly to India’s digital future. The call to action was clear: students should not only adapt to rapidly changing technology but also strive to be disruptors who lead innovation.
Celebrating Achievements and Future Prospects
Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated IIT Mandi for its achievements over the past 15 years. He noted that the institution has secured a distinguished place on the educational map of India and the world. The blend of ancient heritage and modern technological education at IIT Mandi symbolizes the union of tradition and innovation.
During the event, the Raksha Mantri inaugurated two new buildings: the Guidance & Counselling Centre and the Centre for Continuing Education. These facilities are designed to enhance the academic ecosystem and support the personal and professional growth of students and faculty. By providing the necessary infrastructure, IIT Mandi aims to ensure the success of its students in the rapidly evolving world of technology and innovation.
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