Technology Development Board (TDB)under Department of Science and Technology celebrated the National Technology Day, 2024 on 11th May at the INSA Auditorium, ITO,New Delhi.
The event, themed ‘Promoting Clean and Green Technologies for a Sustainable Future’, witnessed the convergence of eminent scientists, dignitaries, and thought leaders, aiming to chart a path towards a cleaner, greener, and more resilient nation.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to Govt. of India, emphasized the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs) through initiatives such as the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME), aiming to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. He highlighted the EV Mission, led by the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology Innovation and Advisory Council (PM-STIAC), dedicated to developing supportive standards and frameworks for EV adoption.
Additionally, Prof. Sood underscored the strategic importance of the National Hydrogen Mission in India’s journey towards a net-zero target by 2070. He emphasized substantial investments in green hydrogen production as a key component of this mission. Prof. Sood also highlighted ongoing efforts in Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technologies, with policies aimed at cost optimization and broader industrial application, further contributing to India’s sustainability goals.
Prof. Sood highlighted the importance of consultative groups and international collaborations, such as OPSA’s partnership with Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) on Zero Emission Trucking, in enhancing India’s technological frameworks and policies for sustainable development and meeting international climate goals.
Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST underscored the significance of innovation for national development, emphasizing the need to foster a culture of innovation and provide opportunities for individuals to contribute to the nation’s progress. He highlighted the government’s initiatives in funding various research and development programs and nurturing innovation through schemes like NIDHI and TDB, aimed at incubating startups and fostering entrepreneurship. In his address, Prof. Karandikar emphasized DST’s pivotal role in supporting research and development in sustainable sectors, particularly in clean and green technologies such as water treatment and electric vehicles (EVs). He noted significant investments made in these programs and highlighted TDB’s pioneering efforts in supporting startups and MSMEs in the clean and green energy sector.
Prof. Karandikar stressed the importance of integrating technology into policy frameworks to drive progress, highlighting collaborations with line ministries and their transition towards sustainability goals. With a vision for achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, he expressed aspirations for India to become a global leader in sustainability efforts.
The keynote address by Padmashri Prof. G.D. Yadav advocated for sustainable solutions, championing carbon removal and technological innovations to achieve net zero by 2070. He highlighted the potential of white hydrogen and the future promise of green hydrogen. Proposing waste-to-wealth factories, hydrogenating plastic, and battery recycling as avenues for sustainable innovation.
Sh. Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary, TDB, highlighted the pivotal projects funded by TDB, underlining the critical role of these technologies in fostering environmental stewardship.
Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President of INSA and Former Secretary, DST, highlighted the critical role of technology in achieving sustainability goals, urging policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize it. He said “Technology is a double-edged sword: it reduces inefficiency but can also drive increased consumption. To combat this, focus on EVs, green hydrogen, carbon capture, and energy-efficient habitats. Transitioning to renewable energy globally is essential to tackle climate change. Let’s ensure technology serves sustainability”.
The event also featured the participation of 23 students, representing 20 projects selected to compete in the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Among 140 students nationwide who showcased 100 innovative projects, these finalists secured a coveted spot to represent India at the Regeneron ISEF from May 11-17, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, USA. Regeneron ISEF, renowned as the world’s largest pre-college science fair, unites over 1,600 young science enthusiasts from 60+ countries, fostering idea exchange and showcasing cutting-edge science. Often dubbed the “Olympics of Science Fairs,” the event serves as a platform for young minds to shine on a global stage.
