NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Friday said that Artificial Intelligence (AI), Nuclear, Space and Quantum technologies will define the future of global growth, economic progress and strategic competitiveness.
Addressing a fireside conversation during a media conclave in New Delhi, the Minister highlighted India’s rapid advances in frontier technologies and said the country is steadily positioning itself among the world’s leading innovation-driven economies.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that technological leadership will increasingly determine the strength and influence of nations in the coming decades. According to him, countries investing in cutting-edge sectors such as AI, quantum computing, nuclear energy and space technology will enjoy stronger economic prospects while also enhancing their national security and geopolitical standing.
India’s Quantum Mission Progress
Highlighting the achievements of the National Quantum Mission (NQM), Dr. Jitendra Singh said the programme has already accomplished more than half of its planned objectives within three years of its launch in 2023. He noted that the mission has made remarkable progress in developing quantum-secure communication technologies, which are expected to play a critical role in defence, cybersecurity, strategic communications and the protection of sensitive information.
He said India is rapidly building capabilities across the quantum ecosystem, including quantum communication, quantum computing and advanced research, reflecting the country’s growing scientific strength and commitment to becoming a global technology leader.
Artificial Intelligence Becoming Central to Development
Speaking about Artificial Intelligence, the Minister said AI is no longer confined to the technology sector but is transforming governance, healthcare, education, research, industry and public service delivery. He added that the government is simultaneously investing in digital infrastructure, computing capacity, data resources and reliable energy systems to support the country’s expanding AI ecosystem.
According to Dr. Jitendra Singh, embracing innovation has become essential for sustainable economic growth. He stressed that no nation can maintain long-term development without investing in frontier technologies and scientific research.
Space and Nuclear Reforms Driving Innovation
The Minister credited a series of policy reforms under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expanding opportunities in science, technology and entrepreneurship. He said the liberalisation of India’s space sector has encouraged the growth of a vibrant startup ecosystem, enabling private participation and accelerating innovation.
He further stated that recent reforms in the nuclear sector are expected to attract fresh investments, promote technological collaboration and strengthen India’s capabilities in a strategically important area. As demand for advanced computing, data centres and digital services grows, he said nuclear energy will become increasingly significant in providing dependable and clean power for the country’s technology-driven future.
Education Reforms Strengthening Research
Dr. Jitendra Singh described the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a transformational reform that has reshaped higher education and research in India. He said the policy has replaced rigid academic structures with flexible and multidisciplinary learning pathways, allowing students to pursue careers that match their interests and abilities.
He noted that the new education framework is encouraging more students to take up research and innovation voluntarily, which will ultimately improve the quality of scientific discoveries and nurture future innovators, entrepreneurs and technology leaders.
Collaborative Innovation Ecosystem
The Minister also spoke about the changing nature of India’s research and development landscape. He said the country is witnessing a shift from a government-led innovation model to a collaborative ecosystem involving academic institutions, industries, startups and private enterprises. Such partnerships, he said, are essential for accelerating scientific advancement, technology development and commercialisation of research outcomes.
He added that recent reforms have significantly strengthened India’s innovation ecosystem, creating new opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses to contribute to national development.
Vision for Developed India by 2047
Looking ahead, Dr. Jitendra Singh said Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technologies are expected to transform societies at an unprecedented pace over the coming decades. He observed that the institutions, policies and technological capabilities being developed today will determine the future trajectory of nations.
Calling upon young Indians to actively participate in the country’s scientific transformation, the Minister urged students to make full use of the unprecedented access to knowledge and learning resources available today. He encouraged them to develop a scientific temper, embrace innovation and contribute to building a knowledge-driven India.
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that reforms in education, research, space, nuclear energy and emerging technologies will strengthen India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047 and establish the country among the world’s leading innovation-powered economies.
