Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visiting the underground nuclear explosion take a look at websites at Pokhran in Rajasthan on May 20, 1998. George Fernandes and Abdul Kalam are seen. Photo: PTI/The Hindu Archives
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (May 11, 2026) greeted folks on the National Technology Day — which commemorates the momentous occasions of May 11, 1998, when India performed profitable nuclear tests at Rajasthan’s Pokhran — and mentioned expertise has turn out to be a key pillar in constructing a self-reliant India.
Mr. Modi mentioned the landmark second in 1998 reflected India’s scientific excellence and unwavering dedication.
“Greetings on National Technology Day. We recall with pride the hard work and dedication of our scientists, which led to the successful tests in Pokhran in 1998,” he mentioned on social media platform X.
The Prime Minister mentioned expertise has turn out to be a key pillar in constructing a self-reliant India and it’s accelerating innovation, increasing alternatives and contributing to the nation’s development throughout sectors.
“Our continued focus remains on empowering talent, encouraging research and creating solutions that serve both national progress and the aspirations of our people,” he mentioned.
Mt. Modi mentioned on at the present time in 1998, the nuclear tests performed at Pokhran launched the world to India’s outstanding functionality.
“Our scientists are the true architects of the nation’s pride and self-respect,” he mentioned.
Also Read |How India’s 1974 ‘peaceful’ nuclear test in Pokhran changed the atomic energy debate
India performed 5 nuclear tests of superior weapon designs on May 11 and 13 in 1998 on the Pokhran vary in Rajasthan desert.
The first three detonations occurred concurrently at 15.45 hours IST on May 11.
Published – May 11, 2026 09:20 am IST