PM Modi Inaugurates Emerging Science, Technology & Innovation Conclave 2026

Why in the News?

Prime Minister **Narendra Modi** inaugurated the **Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2026)** at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The Prime Minister underscored India's transition toward developing indigenous foundational technologies, expanding R&D investments, and driving innovations aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Key Features / Major Points:

- Nuclear Energy Milestone: Highlighted that India’s indigenous **500-Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor** successfully achieved 'First Criticality', marking a major leap in long-term energy security.

- Space Sector & Critical Tech: Applauded space startups for successfully launching payloads using 'Made-in-India' rockets on maiden attempts and mastering satellite docking capabilities.

- R&D Funding Surge: Under the **Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)** framework, a combined commitment of **₹24,000 crore** (equally split with ₹12,000 crore each from government and private investors) has been secured for R&D within a single year.

- Exponential Rise in Patents: Annual patent filings in India have surged from under 50,000 a decade ago to nearly **1.5 lakh**.

- Core Philosophy: Emphasized that scientific progress must be anchored in 'Science for Society' and 'Technology for Transformation'.

Static GK Facts:

- Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF):

- Mandate: Apex body established to seed, grow, and promote R&D and foster a culture of research and innovation across Indian universities and laboratories.

- Bharat Mandapam:

- Location: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi (India's premier international exhibition and convention center).

- Dr. Homi J. Bhabha:

- Renowned nuclear physicist regarded as the founding father of India's nuclear program.

One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):

Q: In which city was the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC 2026) inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

A: New Delhi (Bharat Mandapam)

Q: Which milestone was recently achieved by India's indigenous 500-Megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor?

A: First Criticality

Q: Approximately how many annual patent filings were recorded in India recently, showing a massive structural rise?

A: Nearly 1.5 Lakh

Q: Which apex institution oversees funding and promotion of scientific research under India's recent R&D framework?

A: Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)

#ESTIC2026 #NarendraModi #BharatMandapam #ViksitBharat #ScienceAndTechnology #CurrentAffairs #StaticGK