Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Mar 24 : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure and technology innovation at the “ET Telecom 5G Congress”, emphasizing the transformative strides made in the last decade under the Digital India initiative.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s success in pioneering digital public infrastructure, which has become a model for the world. He pointed to the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme, launched during the early years of the Modi Government, as a game changer. “The real litmus test of this digital transformation came during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring seamless transactions and financial inclusion without disruptions,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also spoke about the Swamitva scheme, which empowers citizens by enabling digital mapping of land ownership, reducing dependence on traditional revenue officers. “With nearly 70% of India’s villages already mapped, this initiative represents the true spirit of citizen-centric governance,” he added.
Emphasizing India’s technological advancements, Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that the country has emerged as a global leader in multiple domains, from space exploration to biotechnology. He cited India’s rapid ascent in the Global Innovation Index—from 81st place to 39th—as a testament to the nation’s innovation ecosystem. “India is now ranked sixth globally in patent filings, with 56% of those patents coming from resident Indians. This marks a dramatic shift from earlier decades when Indian talent sought recognition abroad,” he remarked.
Highlighting the Government’s commitment to scientific research and innovation, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to the launch of a viability fund for space startups, a new National Research Foundation, and the recent decision to open up the nuclear sector to private players. “In the first 100 days of Modi 3.0, we allocated Rs 10,000 crore for space startups and launched a pioneering biotechnology policy—BioE3—focusing on environmental sustainability, employment generation, and economic growth,” he said.
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