Emphasizing Innovation and Self-Reliance

Speaking to undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, along with innovators and researchers, Pradhan stressed that the present moment offers a unique opportunity to build a stronger and more self-reliant India. He highlighted that the collective energy of India’s youth will shape a Samriddh Bharat by 2047, when the country celebrates 100 years of independence.

He called on students to step forward with new ideas, embrace challenges, and continuously innovate until India achieves full self-reliance in every sphere, including technology, manufacturing, and research.

Youth as the Backbone of Samriddh Bharat

The Minister emphasized that India’s talented Yuva Shakti has the potential to rewrite the rules of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. With the government’s support, he said, young innovators will not only shape solutions for national challenges but also establish India as a global hub of technology and knowledge.

“The government stands shoulder to shoulder with our researchers and innovators,” he said. “Our youth’s determination and creativity will pave the way for strengthening India’s technological and economic sovereignty.”

Role of IITs in Building a Self-Reliant India

Pradhan underlined the crucial role played by IITs as the foundation of India’s research and innovation ecosystem. He added that institutions like IIT Delhi are the bedrock for nurturing solutions that can address both domestic and global challenges.

The Minister also assured students that he would return to the campus to review the progress of innovations currently under development. This step, he said, would ensure continued engagement between policymakers and innovators.

Support from Higher Education Department

Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, Dr. Vineet Joshi, also addressed the gathering. He reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s message about the importance of youth in building a self-reliant India. Dr. Joshi noted that the Ministry of Education is actively supporting higher education institutions in strengthening research capacities and advancing innovation. He expressed confidence that IIT Delhi would continue to deliver technologies and solutions of global significance.

India’s Innovation Drive Aligned with National Vision

The discussions at IIT Delhi reflected India’s larger vision of innovation-led growth. According to government data, research and development investments have steadily increased, and start-up ecosystems nurtured by initiatives like Startup India and Atal Innovation Mission are helping young entrepreneurs succeed globally.

By combining institutional support with student-led creativity, policymakers believe India can position itself as a world leader in advanced technologies, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and sustainable manufacturing.

A Call to Action for Students

In his closing remarks, Pradhan encouraged students to be relentless in their pursuit of excellence. He urged them to combine traditional knowledge with modern innovation to ensure India’s long-term prosperity. “Your resolve and creativity will decide the future of Bharat,” he told the students, drawing loud applause.