Modi lauds scientists for 1998 Pokhran n-tests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the efforts of Indian scientists and political leadership for the success of Pokhran nuclear tests on May 11, 1998, a day that is also observed as Technology Day.

In a message on Twitter, Modi said: "We salute efforts of our scientists and political leadership behind the success of Pokhran Tests on this day in 1998."

Adding that May 11 was a "very special day in India's history", the prime minister said: "On this day in 1998 India conducted nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan. When Atal ji announced the success of the tests the entire nation rejoiced. India once again tested on May 13."

He said that the tests were possible due to the "stellar work of our scientists. They were a victory of technology".

"Atal ji's government showed tremendous courage. It demonstrated the importance of strong leadership," Modi said. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the prime minister when the Pokhran tests took place in 1998.

In a separate message, the prime minister assured that the government was leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that technology becomes "a very big part of our lives".

"We are working towards fulfilling our dream towards a Digital India," he said.

Modi also extended his "special greetings" to all technology enthusiasts and scientists whose passion for technology and quest for innovation "continues to make India proud".

He said that technology had the power to transform the lives of the people.

"From mitigating poverty, simplifying processes, ending corruption to providing better services to the people, the vitality of technology is everywhere," he added.