India investing billions of dollars in the research ecosystem: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said billions of dollars are being invested in the research ecosystem.

Addressing the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics, Modi said, “In India, tradition meets innovation, spirituality meets science, and curiosity meets creativity.”

“India hosts one of the world’s highest Astronomical Observatories in Ladakh, situated at 4,500 metres above sea level. It is close enough to shake hands with the stars!” he remarked.

He further highlighted the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope in Pune, describing it as one of the world's most sensitive radio telescopes, aiding in decoding the mysteries of pulsars, quasars and galaxies.

The PM shared that last month, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla completed his historic mission to the International Space Station, calling it a proud moment for all Indians and an inspiration for young explorers.

He emphasised that the future of science lies in the hands of young minds, and in solving real-world problems with imagination and compassion. “India believes in the power of international collaboration, and that this Olympiad reflects that spirit,” he added.

The International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) is an annual competition in astronomy and astrophysics for secondary school students. The 18th IOAA is being held at Mumbai from August 11 to 21.

The event is organised by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, a national centre of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, an autonomous institution under the umbrella of the Department of Atomic Energy, as well as a deemed university.