India's Technological Growth and Innovation: Rajnath Singh's Address at IIT Mandi

During the event, Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated two new buildings—the Guidance & Counselling Centre and the Centre for Continuing Education.

India’s Thriving Technological Ecosystem and the Role of IIT Mandi

IIT Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, celebrated its 16th Foundation Day on February 24, 2025, with an inspiring address by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. In his speech, he highlighted the exponential growth of India’s technological sector, which is projected to reach a valuation of $300-350 billion within the next five years. With over 1.25 lakh start-ups and 110 unicorns, India is rapidly establishing itself as the third-largest start-up ecosystem globally. He encouraged students to leverage this dynamic period of growth and innovation, urging them to contribute to and lead India’s advancement in key technological domains.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the importance of fostering an innovation-driven culture that supports entrepreneurship and knowledge creation. He emphasized the necessity of research and development in emerging fields such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and digital technologies. IIT Mandi, he stated, has played a pivotal role in nurturing scientific advancements and is well-positioned to further India's technological leadership.

IIT Mandi’s Role in Defence Technology and National Security

Touching upon national security, the Raksha Mantri called for IIT Mandi’s increased involvement in defence-related research and development. He commended the institution’s ongoing collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and encouraged further contributions in AI-driven warfare, indigenous AI chip development, cybersecurity, and quantum technology. He stressed that technological advancements in these fields would be critical to strengthening India’s defence capabilities and ensuring self-reliance.

Progress in Defence Self-Reliance and Economic Growth

Shri Rajnath Singh also highlighted India’s remarkable strides in defence self-reliance, noting that the country has achieved 88% self-sufficiency in ammunition production. He further revealed that India’s defence exports reached approximately Rs 23,000 crore in 2023-24, with an ambitious target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. These achievements, he noted, are a testament to India’s commitment to building a robust defence industry that not only safeguards national security but also contributes significantly to economic growth.

India’s Digital Revolution and Global Leadership in Telecommunications

Speaking about India’s digital progress, Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the country's unprecedented advancements in the digital economy. He highlighted that India’s telecom sector has grown to become the second-largest in the world, and initiatives like UPI have positioned India as a global leader in digital transactions. He encouraged students to actively participate in the country’s digital transformation, reinforcing that technological innovation will be central to India’s development in the coming decades.

Vision for a Developed India by 2047

Shri Rajnath Singh urged students to embrace the principles of "Initiate, Improve, and Transform (IIT)" to propel India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. He motivated them to be bold in their pursuit of knowledge, resilient in overcoming challenges, and innovative in their approach to problem-solving. He emphasized that by working collectively, the nation can harness technology to address pressing challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.

Encouraging Students to Be Innovators and Disruptors

In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh advised students to be disruptors rather than mere adapters of technology. He stressed that adapting to technological change is important, but creating new technologies is the key to global leadership. Encouraging young innovators to aim high, he stated that the present era represents the "Indian Dream," where aspirations and achievements can redefine the global landscape.

Recognition of IIT Mandi’s Contributions and Future Prospects

The Raksha Mantri congratulated IIT Mandi for its remarkable progress over the last 15 years, stating that the institution has carved a distinguished place on both the Indian and global educational maps. He highlighted the unique blend of ancient heritage and modern technological education that IIT Mandi represents, emphasizing that its location in a historically and culturally rich region symbolizes the fusion of tradition and innovation.

Inauguration of New Infrastructure for Academic and Professional Growth

During the event, Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated two new buildings—the Guidance & Counselling Centre and the Centre for Continuing Education. These facilities aim to enhance the academic ecosystem and contribute to the holistic development of students and faculty. He noted that these additions will play a crucial role in strengthening IIT Mandi’s contributions to Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Management, ensuring that the institution remains a key driver of technological excellence.

Shri Rajnath Singh concluded his address by expressing confidence in IIT Mandi’s potential to lead in technological advancements. He encouraged students to take ambitious strides in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship, reinforcing that their contributions will shape India's trajectory in global technology and economic progress.