India’s Independence Day 2025: Technology Milestones From 1947 Till Today

From the day we gained independence, India has been on a relentless quest, not just for economic growth, but for technological self-reliance. Here’s a look at the milestones that have shaped our journey from telegrams to quantum computing.

1948: Establishment of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI)

The ISI, founded in 1931 but significantly expanded post-independence, pioneered data science and early computing in India. It laid the groundwork for statistical research and technological innovation.

Impact: Fostered a scientific approach to data analysis, influencing computing and research methodologies.

1950: Formation of the Planning Commission

The Planning Commission was established to prioritize science and technology in national development, focusing on creating research centers and institutes.

Impact: Set the stage for structured technological advancement through Five-Year Plans.

1951: Creation of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)

The first IIT was established in Kharagpur, followed by others, to produce world-class engineers and scientists.

Impact: IITs became global symbols of technical excellence, producing talent that fueled India’s tech industry and global contributions.

1951: Development of TIFRAC

India’s first indigenous digital computer, TIFRAC (Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Automatic Calculator), was developed.

Impact: Marked the beginning of India’s computing journey, enabling early research in computational sciences.

1958: Establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission

The Atomic Energy Commission was set up to advance nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

Impact: Laid the foundation for India’s nuclear program, culminating in the 1974 "Smiling Buddha" test, enhancing energy and defense capabilities.

1960s: Green Revolution

Introduction of high-yielding variety seeds, modern irrigation, and chemical fertilizers transformed agriculture.

Impact: Achieved food self-sufficiency, reduced import dependency, and improved food security for millions.

1969: Formation of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

ISRO was established to advance space research and technology.

Impact: Enabled landmark missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, positioning India as a global leader in space exploration.

1974: First Nuclear Test (Smiling Buddha)

India conducted its first nuclear test, demonstrating its nuclear technology capabilities.

Impact: Strengthened national defense and established India as a significant player in global nuclear technology.

1975: Satellite Instructional Television Experiment (SITE)

SITE used satellite technology to broadcast educational content to rural areas.

Impact: Expanded access to education, demonstrating the potential of satellite communication for social development.

1980s: Rise of Personal Computers

Personal computers became mainstream in businesses and government operations.

Impact: Accelerated automation and data processing, laying the groundwork for the IT revolution.

1980s–1990s: Growth of the IT Industry

Companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro emerged as global IT service providers, capitalising on software development and outsourcing.

Impact: Transformed India into a global IT hub, contributing significantly to GDP and job creation.

1991: Economic Liberalisation

Economic reforms opened markets, reduced tariffs, and encouraged foreign investment, boosting the IT and telecom sectors.

Impact: Catalysed the growth of technology industries and integrated India into the global economy.

1995: Public Internet Access via VSNL

Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited (VSNL) introduced public internet services.

Impact: Marked India’s entry into the global digital arena, enabling connectivity and digital innovation.

1990s: Telecom Revolution

Liberalisation of the telecom sector led to affordable mobile phones and data plans, driven by companies like Reliance and Airtel.

Impact: Connected millions, especially in rural areas, and laid the foundation for digital services.

2004: Introduction of E-Governance

E-governance initiatives digitised government services, improving accessibility and transparency.

Impact: Streamlined public administration, reduced corruption, and enhanced citizen services.

2007: Emergence of E-Commerce

Platforms like Flipkart were founded, leveraging growing internet penetration.

Impact: Revolutionized retail, created jobs, and empowered small businesses to reach national and global markets.

2014: Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan)

ISRO’s successful Mars mission made India the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit.

Impact: Showcased India’s cost-effective space technology and global scientific contributions.

2015: Launch of Digital India Initiative

Aimed to create a digitally empowered society through infrastructure, literacy, and online services.

Impact: Accelerated digital transformation, with initiatives like Aadhaar and BharatNet driving connectivity and governance.

2016: Launch of Unified Payments Interface (UPI)

UPI, introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India, enabled seamless digital transactions.

Impact: Revolutionised financial inclusion, making India a leader in digital payments with billions of monthly transactions.

2016: Startup India Program

Launched to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in technology and other sectors.

Impact: Boosted India’s startup ecosystem, creating unicorns like Flipkart, Ola, and Byju’s, and establishing India as a global startup hub.

2023: Chandrayaan-3 Lunar Landing

ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed on the Moon’s south pole.

Impact: Positioned India as a leader in lunar exploration, demonstrating advanced space technology.

2024: Growth of AI and Digital Businesses

69 percent of Indian organizations identified as digital businesses, integrating AI into healthcare, agriculture, and finance.

Impact: Positioned India as a global AI hub, driving innovation and economic growth.

2025: Expansion of Renewable Energy

Significant investments in solar and wind energy reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Impact: Supported sustainable development and global climate goals, enhancing India’s energy security.

Is India the next tech mega giant?

India’s technological journey from 1947 to 2025 reflects its transformation from an agrarian economy to a global technology leader. Milestones in computing, space, nuclear technology, IT, telecom, and digital finance have driven economic growth, social progress, and global influence. With ongoing advancements in AI, quantum computing, and renewable energy, India continues to shape the global tech landscape.

From launching our first satellite to leading in digital payments, from building nuclear capabilities to mastering quantum tech, India’s tech journey is a testament to the nation’s spirit of innovation, resilience, and freedom.

Published on: Friday, August 15, 2025, 08:00 AM IST