India is steadily advancing toward its goal of becoming a developed nation, taking a leadership role in Artificial Intelligence (AI), research, and digital infrastructure development, experts said on Monday during the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2025 held at Bharat Mandapam.
Speaking to IANS on the sidelines of the event, scientists and academicians lauded India’s technological progress across multiple domains, from space and health to agriculture and research, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
“India is leading in different sectors such as health and space. Earlier, we used to be followers; now we are leaders. It’s a big change and just the beginning of our progress,” said Bhushan Patwardhan, Professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University.
Nidhi, one of the attendees, highlighted India’s rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence and digital public infrastructure. “There will be a day when India becomes the topmost country excelling in digital AI,” she said, commending the recently launched Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme worth ₹1 lakh crore. “The increased investment in R&D will drive innovation because behind every innovation, financial support is crucial,” she added.
Dr. Rahul Singh, CEO of the Medical Incubation Centre at GIMS Noida, echoed the sentiment, noting that the RDI scheme and the establishment of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) have arrived at a pivotal time. “The government has built an ecosystem connecting research, innovation, and product development. India is ready to become India 2047 very quickly,” he said.
Dr. Meena Krishnayya emphasized that India is no longer merely a consumer of technology but a “pioneer of transformation through it.” She pointed to progress in sectors like agriculture, drone technology, and women’s participation in STEM. “Females are moving ahead in science, and our agricultural technologies, especially in fertilisation and drones, are improving nutrition and productivity,” she said.
Mangi Lal Jat, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), underscored Prime Minister Modi’s focus on tackling malnutrition and improving soil health. “The PM’s message prioritised nutrition and soil health through bio-fortified crops and biofertilisers. For this, digital innovation will play a crucial role,” Jat said, stressing the need to explore India’s genetic diversity for nutrition security.
Meanwhile, Dr. Monika Garg compared India’s scientific ambitions with those of the US and China, noting that with “proper incentives, instruments, and facilities,” India’s progress toward becoming a developed country would accelerate.
The conclave brought together scientists, educators, and policymakers to discuss India’s emerging role as a global technology hub, reinforcing the nation’s aspiration to lead through innovation, inclusivity, and digital transformation by 2047.
