Prime Minister Narendra Modi today emphasized that India is deeply committed to nurturing scientific curiosity and empowering young minds. In a video message to the inaugural ceremony of the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics, he said, over 10 million students are learning STEM concepts through hands-on activities in Atal Tinkering Labs.
Expressing his joy at connecting virtually with more than 300 shining stars from 64 countries, Mr Modi said, India believes in the power of collaboration, and this Olympiad reflects that spirit. The Prime Minister urged young students and scholars to use imagination and compassion to solve future challenges and improve humanity. Modi affirmed that for India, the sky is not the limit but just the beginning. He also highlighted that India is a leading country in terms of women’s participation in STEM domains, supported by various initiatives.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the country invites young minds from across the world to study, research and collaborate. Lauding India’s initiatives in the fields of science, space and technology, Mr Modi said, India has one of the world’s highest astronomical observatories in Ladakh. He underscored that the country is proudly contributing to global mega-science projects like the Square Kilometre Array and LIGO India. Mentioning that India was the first to successfully land near the moon’s South Pole, Mr Modi said that the country has also set its sights on the sun with Aditya-L1 solar observatory. He further said that to make access to knowledge more democratic, the government has launched the One Nation, One Subscription scheme, which provides free access to reputed international journals for millions of students and researchers.
Principal Scientific Adviser Professor Ajay Kumar Sood emphasized that science and technology are key to achieving Viksit Bharat and praised the participation of 64 countries as a sign of global cooperation. He highlighted India’s historic and ongoing contributions to astronomy and advancements in fields like AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors. Speaking on the occasion, Former Vice President of the International Astronomical Union, Professor Ajit Kembhavi noted that Olympiads inspire young minds and shape careers. Director of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Professor Jayram Chengalur underlined the institute’s contributions and the importance of global scientific unity.
IOAA President Prof. Aniket Sule celebrated the event’s global reach, with participation from all inhabited continents, and hoped it would foster lasting friendships and future peace. Professor Arnab Bhattacharya of HBCSE welcomed attendees, noting that a shared curiosity about the cosmos unites participants. The event also featured cultural performances, the IOAA 2025 anthem launch, and a parade of participating countries.
