National Technology Day in India Date in the current year: May 11, 2024

India was one of the first countries in Asia to begin the development of a nuclear program. The program started in 1944. Its key component was the Pokhran Test Range located in the Thar Desert. India's first nuclear weapon explosion (codenamed Smiling Buddha) was performed in 1974.

The second test codenamed Operation Shaki took place 24 years later, in May 1994. Three nuclear bombs were detonated on March 11, and two more were detonated on March 13. Despite declaring possession of nuclear weapons, India is not a nuclear-weapon state under the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Pokhran-II is considered the crucial moment in the growth of India's technology prowess, therefore Prime Minister of India declared its anniversary as National Technology Day. It is observed annually throughout the country by scientific and industrial organizations as well as educational institutions. The holiday celebrates the achievements in the field of science and industry which contribute to the country's development.