Rapid Technological Advances Make Scientific Research Essential, Says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated COSMOS-Mysuru Planetarium in Karnataka, India’s first LED Dome planetarium. He further stressed that countries must maintain their pace of development amid rapid technological advancements.

“Today, technology is changing rapidly. No country can take the risk of undermining or slowing down its progress. A strong ecosystem for science and research is being created in the country,” he said.

PM Modi highlighted India’s ancient contributions to astronomy, recalling the work of Aryabhata, Bhaskaracharya and Nilakantha Somayaji. He further praised Mysuru’s legacy of promoting scientific education under Maharaja Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar.

Drawing a connection between science and spirituality, PM Modi said both traditions had progressed together in India.

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s achievements in space exploration over the past decade. He recalled Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing near the Moon’s south polar region and the Aditya-L1 solar mission. He further highlighted India’s space-docking achievement, which made the country the fourth globally to demonstrate the capability.

PM Modi said opening the space sector had created opportunities for startups and young entrepreneurs to develop rockets and undertake ambitious projects.

Emphasising practical applications, PM Modi highlighted ISRO’s support for fishermen through satellite-based safety alerts and train tracking systems developed with Indian Railways. He further referred to satellite technology’s role in crop insurance under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.

Recalling the slogans ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ and ‘Jai Vigyan’, the Prime Minister said ‘Jai Anusandhan’ had added research to India’s development vision.

PM Modi highlighted the government’s ₹1 lakh crore research and innovation initiative and urged schools and colleges to encourage students to visit the planetarium. He further said nurturing scientific curiosity among young people could lead to future discoveries and innovations.

Governor Sudha Yadav, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and other dignitaries attended the inauguration.

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