Our goal today is to develop new technologies for India, the world: PM at science conclave
Source Entity
The Indian Express
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave 2026, urging stakeholders to focus on measurable innovation for a 'Viksit Bharat'. He emphasized building secure, human-centric AI systems to drive national development.
Driving India's Technological Frontier: The ESTIC 2026 Vision
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam marks a pivotal moment in India’s long-term developmental strategy. By bringing together the tripartite force of researchers, industry leaders, and startup founders, the event underscores a shift from theoretical discourse toward the execution of tangible, high-impact prototypes. This initiative is directly linked to the overarching national goal of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India), positioning scientific advancement as the bedrock of future prosperity.
The Mandate for Measurable Outcomes
In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized a departure from traditional conferencing formats that often prioritize abstract dialogue. By challenging attendees to set three-year timelines for specific products, pilot projects, and prototypes, the government is introducing a results-oriented culture into the scientific community. This directive aims to compress the innovation lifecycle, ensuring that the intellectual capital present at Bharat Mandapam translates into scalable solutions that address both domestic needs and global market demands.
AI as a Pillar of National Security and Utility
Central to the discussions at ESTIC 2026 is the strategic deployment of Artificial Intelligence. Prime Minister Modi’s explicit call to build AI systems that prioritize system security and human utility reflects a sophisticated understanding of the dual-use nature of emerging technologies. In an era where digital sovereignty is becoming synonymous with national security, the focus on 'secure systems' suggests a policy trajectory that favors robust, indigenous AI infrastructure over reliance on external platforms.
Building the Foundation of 'Viksit Bharat'
'Viksit Bharat' is not merely a political slogan but a structural objective that relies on the democratization of innovation. By engaging the youth and startup ecosystem, the government is attempting to cultivate a grassroots movement of scientific discovery. The integration of these diverse stakeholders is intended to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where academic research finds commercial viability through startups, ultimately accelerating the nation’s transition toward a developed economic status.
Broader Implications and Future Trends
Looking ahead, the emphasis on measurable outcomes at ESTIC 2026 signals a potential shift in how government grants and research funding may be allocated in the future. We can expect to see a more rigorous evaluation process for scientific projects, with a greater focus on IP generation and product-market fit. As India continues to position itself as a global tech hub, the success of this conclave will likely be measured by the number of successful pilots that emerge from this mandate over the next three years, setting a new benchmark for state-led innovation initiatives.