National Technology Day Marks Pokhran-II Tests

National Technology Day is observed in India on 11 May every year. The day commemorates the Pokhran-II nuclear tests of 1998, which were conducted at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan on 11 May and 13 May 1998.

Pokhran-II and Operation Shakti

Pokhran-II was also called Operation Shakti. The series included five nuclear detonations, with three underground tests carried out on 11 May 1998 and two additional fission tests on 13 May 1998. The tests included a 45-kiloton thermonuclear device, a 15-kiloton fission device, and a 0.2-kiloton sub-kiloton device.

Scientific and Political Leadership

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, an aerospace scientist and former President of India, was among the key scientific figures associated with the operation. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister of India during the tests, and he declared 11 May as National Technology Day in 1999.

Other 11 May 1998 Milestones

On 11 May 1998, India also recorded the first test flight of the indigenous Hansa-3 aircraft in Bengaluru. The Defence Research and Development Organisation also test-fired the Trishul surface-to-air missile on the same day.

Important Facts for Exams

• National Technology Day is linked to 11 May 1998, the date of the first Pokhran-II tests.
• Pokhran-II made India the sixth country to join the group of nuclear-armed states often called the Nuclear Club.
• Operation Shakti was conducted at the Indian Army’s Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan.
• National Technology Day was formally declared in 1999.

Theme and Observance

The expected theme for National Technology Day 2026 is “Responsible Innovation for Inclusive Growth”. The observance is associated with scientific temper, indigenous technology, and careers in science and technology.